146 - DUCLOS, Charles Pinot. Acajou et Zirphile.

DUCLOS, Charles Pinot. Acajou et Zirphile. A rare edition printed on laid paper at the expense of the Count of Artois, in a charming full morocco binding of the period. Paris, Didot l'Aîné, 1780. In-18, full green morocco, smooth spine decorated with gilt fleurons, title label in red morocco, triple gilt fillet framing the covers, gilt garland on the edges and fillets, all edges gilt (contemporary binding). x and 69 pp., title vignette featuring the coat of arms of the Count of Artois, 2 headbands, and a footer. Binding slightly rubbed, rare marginal foxing. A charming edition printed in very limited numbers on fine laid paper, part of the famous collection of works printed by order of the Count of Artois (the future Charles X), whose coat of arms is printed on the title page. Speaking of the Count’s collection, Brunet noted that “it would be difficult for typography to produce anything more beautiful than these… small volumes, which will always be counted among Didot’s masterpieces.” Written as the result of a wager to provide a narrative based on the engravings made by François Boucher for the Count of Tessin, this satirical fairy tale by Charles Pinot Duclos (1704–1772) was a great success upon its publication. A superb copy in full period morocco leather.