Edmondo De Amicis; Achille Picco; Fernando Vittorino Joannes; Salvatore Fiume; Emilio Salgari - Cuore – Carlo Magno – I Misteri della Jungla Nera | Lote 3 Libros Edición Exclusiva CRAI + Cartas + - 1990-1994

Exclusive CRAI lot – 3 large-format illustrated books (1990–1994). Luxury editions, special non-commercial runs, with original CRAI letters, ornate bindings, and included lithography. Classic works of European literature and history, illustrated by renowned artists and published by Editoriale del Drago and Giunti Marzocco. Highly sought-after pieces by collectors of illustrated books and Italian institutional editions.

Complete description of the lot.
Lot consisting of 3 illustrated books + 3 original CRAI cards + 1 lithograph.

This batch includes three special editions published for CRAI (Cooperativa Dettaglianti Alimentari), intended exclusively for clients and collaborators, not sold in bookstores, which significantly increases their collectible value.

These are carefully crafted editions in every aspect: high-quality paper, meticulous printing, decorative bindings, original introductory texts, and exclusive graphic material.

The mysteries of the black jungle – Emilio Salgari
Editoriale del Drago, Milan – 1990 Exclusive edition CRAI
Classic of Italian adventure literature
Text by Emilio Salgari
CRAI Institutional Edition
Dedicated editorial introduction
Inspired by the exotic, colonial, and adventurous imagery that made Salgari famous.
Historical context: Published to celebrate the cultural value of adventure storytelling, this edition recovers the spirit of 19th-century exoticism: distant territories, heroism, untamed nature, and fascination with the Orient. CRAI uses this work as a symbol of cultural escape and a gift of prestige to its clients.

2. Charlemagne – Father Vittorino Joannes
Editoriale del Drago, Milan – 1994. Exclusive CRAI edition.
Large-format historical book
Father Vittorino Joannes' Text
Illustrations by Salvatore Fiume
Includes original artistic lithograph.
Careful editing with medieval iconographic references.
Content and artistic value: This work analyzes the figure of Charlemagne as the founder of medieval Europe. Salvatore Fiume's illustrations add a solemn pictorial dimension, inspired by Carolingian miniatures and sacred iconography, elevating the book to the level of an artistic book-object.
The illustration of the frontispiece is taken from a miniature from the Carolingian period (Paris National Library).

3. Cuore – Edmondo De Amicis
Giunti Marzocco – CRAI Edition
Absolute classic of Italian literature
Introduction by Enzo Biagi
Institutional commemorative edition
Decorative binding in red with gold accents.
Cultural importance: Cuore is one of the most influential works on Italian education and identity. This CRAI edition reinforces its moral and pedagogical message, turning it into an object of collective memory and sentimental value, highly appreciated by collectors.

Original CRAI letters (3)
Three original CRAI official letters are included, one for each book, printed on corporate paper, signed, and with institutional logos.
Extract of the content (faithful summary)
CRAI presents these works as a cultural gift for its clients.
It emphasizes the commitment to promoting culture, history, and literature.
Each book is described as an object of educational and artistic value.
The letters reinforce the non-commercial and exclusive character of the lot.
These cards significantly increase the value of the set, as they certify its institutional origin.

Lithography included
Original lithograph associated with the volume Carlo Magno.
Related to the historical iconography of the book.
Excellent artistic complement
Ideal for framing or preserving alongside the volume.

Condition of Preservation
Books in very good overall condition.
Clean and well-preserved bindings
Interior Care
Original letters in excellent condition.
Well-preserved lithograph

Why is this lot special?
Editions not available in bookstores.
Prestigious institutional publications
Illustrations of high artistic value
Original letters documenting their exclusivity.
Ideal for both expert collectors and cultural investors.
Excellent balance between quality, rarity, and potential for appreciation.