One volume (of two). pp. xiv, [2], 268, [2], 8 [Directions to the Binder often lacking] + Plus a remarkable group of (40) elegant engravings, including two duplicates and a portrait frontis. Lacks the plate at p. 87. Many fine vignettes. Most of the plates are after Charles-Dominique-Joseph Eisen (1720-1778). 12mo (in 8s). 185 mm. Some age stain, but generally clean. All edges gilt. Attractive contemporary French dark green morocco bindings, with only slight defects. Hardbound. Very Good. First Edition. The world famous tales and fables of Jean de La Fontaine (1621-1695), neatly printed in verse, are joined by the best work of the great illustrators & engravers Charles Eisen (1720-1778) and Pierre-Philippe Choffard (1730-1809). Justly considered one of the greatest examples of French rococo illustration. The Fermiers Generaux, an entrepreneurial financial association responsible for gathering and banking certain kinds of taxes, commissioned this edition of La Fontaine's zesty tales. Determined that the book should be the best of its kind, they allowed their agent, the Chevalier d'Agincourt, unlimited resources. It is still provocative to consider that patronage of the arts by this new plutocracy produced the greatest monument and triumph of this renowned age of illustration. See: Cohen-de Ricci 558-571; Ray. 'Art of the French Illustrated Book' p. 54-56; Holloway. 'French Rococo Book Illustration' pp. 21-24; & Etc. By offering this one volume we give you an addordable opportunity to acquire part of THE IMMORTAL FERMIERS GENERAL EDITION OF THE . TALES OF LA FONTAINE. Please check our other entries for the full set of this great work in fine condition. CHEST 2/1
