Jean Giono - Les Âmes Fortes - 1949

Jean Giono – The Strong Souls – Gallimard NRF 1949 – Binding design by Paul Bonet -
EO – numbered copy 333/1000 on Alfama Marais

This copy is an original edition of the novel “Les âmes fortes” by Jean Giono, published in 1949 in a Bonet binding printed on Alfama Marais paper, and bears the number 333/1050 (of which 50 are hors commerce).

This novel, whose title seems to form a counterpoint to Nicolas Gogol's 'Dead Souls', was adapted for cinema by Raoul Ruiz in 2001.

Paul Bonet bindings are rare and particularly sought after by bibliophile collectors. They are part of a series of 552 titles (mostly first editions) published between 1941 and 1967 in Gallimard's NRF white collection, which, unlike the usual editions with a paper cover, benefit from a limited edition with a hardcover art binding adorned with an original design conceived by different artists, among whom Paul Bonet is the most representative, with polychrome decorations printed in several passes.

In-12 (18x12 cm)
339 pp

Excellent overall condition, fresh interior, pages very white, no foxing, tears, or writing. The photos are part of the description (but slightly yellowed compared to reality because they were taken under artificial light).