183 - [BOUND EDITIONS] MOLIÈRE - Works

[BOUND EDITIONS] MOLIÈRE - Works Compagnie des libraires associés, Paris, 1773 - A magnificent first-printing copy of this famous edition, featuring grammatical notes, warnings, and observations on each play by M. Bret. Complete set of 6 volumes, bound in splendid period bindings of solid red morocco leather, with richly decorated raised spines, panels featuring a guilloché background, gilt title and volume numbers, triple gilt fillets framing the covers, and gilt edges. Note that the last volume is in an imitation binding, particularly well executed, featuring subtle differences in the grain of the morocco and very slight variations in the embossing on the spine and endpapers, which are practically imperceptible. Excellent overall condition, with rare foxing and minimal scuffing on the bindings. A highly regarded edition, featuring an engraved portrait by Cathelin after Mignard as the frontispiece, 6 fleurons on the title pages, and 33 engraved illustrations by the finest artists of the period after Moreau. Complete with the cartons on pp. 66–67 and 80–81. Provenance: Library of Dr. Lucien-Graux, with his bookplate.