Bernardin de Saint-Pierre - Paul et Virginie - 1920

Beautiful copy of one of the greatest successes of French literature, Paul et Virginie by Jacques-Henri Bernardin de Saint-Pierre. This 1920 edition, published by the famous publisher Georges Crès et Cie in the prestigious collection "Les Maîtres du Livre", features a preface by Tristan Bernard.

**Print Run and Paper:**
Numbered copy no. 396, one of the paper editions from the Manufactures de Rives (a deluxe/special proof after the few copies on Japan and China papers). The paper is of superb quality, offering excellent contrast with the engravings.

**Illustration :**
The principal interest of this edition lies in its typographic ornaments. The headpieces and tailpieces were designed and wood-engraved by leading artists of the early 20th century.

Binding:
Superb antique half-leather binding (calfskin or morocco) with cornerpieces.
- Back: back with nerve-like ridges highlighted by gilded fillets, adorned with a magnificent mosaic fleur-de-lis (a red leather inlaid and gilded piece) at the center of an orientalist-style motif.
- Plates & Guards: Plates covered with marbled paper in ochre and gold tones. Matching inner guards.

State:
- Binding: In excellent condition. Leather well-nourished, gilding vivid, corners and spine ends impeccable.
- Interior: Very fresh, almost. The Rives paper has retained all its suppleness and whiteness.