Danse et ballets

1862 · KC10862 — Paris: Baillieu Libraire Quai des Grands-Augustins No. 43 1862. Paperback. Very Good. 'La Grande Danse Macabre’ Paris edition of 1862 in original uncut wrappers 4to 265 x 200mm. 66 pages misnumbered 67. 56 woodcuts reprinted from the blocks of the 1641 Troyes edition. Original printed wrappers with printer’s device of Baillieu of pair of skeletons supporting a shield inscribed with ‘B.’ Title page repeating Baillieu’s device and with ‘skeletal lettering’ forming the words ‘Danse Macabre.’ Excellent survival in its unbound state spine perished edges lightly chipped and wraps are loose but present only two stains on pages 20 and 21. <br/><br/>This edition was issued in Paris in about 1862 although it is undated. It is the re-edition of the La Grand Danse Macabre Des Hommes et Des Femmes with designs printed from the wood blocks of the Troyes edition of 1641. The text is reproduced from the original 1486 Marchant edition. Facsimile copies of the medieval ‘Dance of Death’ tale were highly popular in the 19th century. The macabre spirit and fateful themes of the book have been appreciated for their artistry and poetry since the late Middle Ages. Baillieu, Libraire, Quai des Grands-Augustins, No. 43 paperback books