By Thomas | 15th October 2018
In our Expert’s Choice feature, one of our experts shares their favourite items from our auctions. This week our Books expert, Mark Harrison, selects five books that are unique in their own way, some of which are displayed at our stand at Bibliomania in Paris, from 17th to 20th November 2018. If you happen to be in the neighbourhood, find us at Hall C, Stand 714 between 10 am and 7 pm.
1. Benoist - Rome dans sa grandeur - 1870
Rome in its greatness. These three volumes contain more than a hundred lithographs, bringing ancient Rome alive with breathtaking engravings. Views include the Roman Forum, St. Peter’s Cathedral, and the Colosseum. This set includes 3 bindings with fine gilt decoration to the spine. You can take a look at this book at the Bibliomania fair 2018 in Paris.
2. Satyre Menippée de la Vertu du Catholicon d'Espagne – 1696
Behind this beautiful contemporary binding, an important pamphlet is hidden, criticizing the wars of religion, raging across Europe in the sixteenth century. This is one of the best written pamphlets of its day and is adorned with three attractive woodcut engravings. Most interestingly, this book bears the family crest for the Murat family. Perhaps the book was in the hands of Joachim Murat, the Marshal of France.
3. Jean Cocteau, Geneviève Laporte - Sous le manteau de feu
This beautiful book contains more than twelve original lithographs by Cocteau. Genevieve was one of Picasso’s last lovers, so Cocteau had much to live up to. Only 192 copies were made in this format, making this a rare find! You can inspect this book yourself at the Bibliomania fair.
4. Bookcase with fake books – 2018
This mini bookcase with fake books can be seen as a work of art or as book curiosity, but there is definitely something attractive about this item. Most of these books are “fake books” glued in position, but one of them is a properly bound small blank book and can be taken out and used. Sized 33.3 x 23.5 x 4.6 cm.
5. Sebastiaan S. Hesselink & Agnes M.L. Kessemakers - The Children's World of Learning 1480 - 1880
Through reference works, you can see exactly when a book was printed and what it should contain. This marvellous three-volume catalogue is an excellent example. Written over decades, it includes details of many interesting and important children’s books from around the world, with fascinating details about them. A must for any collector of children’s books.
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All books are part of this week's Autographs, Manuscripts & Weekly Specials auction and will end from 20th October 2018 onward.
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