LES FLEURS DU MAL and FLOWERS OF EVIL
Paris: Limited Editions Club, 1940. Auguste Rodin and Jacob Epstein. Hardcover. Two volumes, one in the original French (7" x 9") bound in light blue wraps with glassine wrapper and the other with English translations by various hands (6-3/4" x 11- 1/2") bound in full burgundy cloth with gilt lettering. The definitive edition of the original French text with illustrations by Auguste Rodin reproduced from the copy of the book Rodin illustrated for Paul Gallimard. The English edition printed at the Fanfare Press. Edited, with an introduction and notes, by James Laver. Illustrated with 24 drawings by Jacob Epstein printed from the lithographic stone by Mourlot in Paris. Of a total of 1500 numbered but unsigned copies, each volume of this copy is not numbered (in place of the number is written in ink "Office Copy") and bears the Club's blindstamp stating it is one of 15 presentation copies. Tape-repaired tear to one page of the notes at the rear of the English volume. The French volume is shaken and has tape repairs to the spine. Each volume is internally Fine. Very Good in a Fine example of the scarce slipcase. Item #016271
This title was delayed seven years in shipment because of World War II with members not receiving the book until 1947. The books were stored under great hazard during the Nazi occupation and could not be finished until the war in Europe had concluded.
Price: $400.00