Daniel Defoe - Aventures de Robinson Crusoé – Superbe cartonnage polychrome historié de Nelson/Dias - 1890

Magnificent specimen of the emblematic The Adventures of Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe, published in Tours by the prestigious Maison Alfred Mame et Fils between 1885 and 1890 (undated).

The work is wrapped in its spectacular publisher's binding in red percaline, adorned on the first cover with a large polychrome and gold composition signed by the illustrator/engraver Nelson & Dias, depicting Robinson Crusoe armed, accompanied by his parrot and Friday. The spine is richly decorated with romantic gold stamps and panels with foliate motifs. All edges are gilt and bright.

** Condition of preservation :
- Cover & Binding : Red percaline very fresh. The polychrome plate and the gilding on the first cover as on the spine are luminous and well preserved. Corners sharp, heads and tails intact and not crushed. Joints and hinges solid, with no crack or play.
- Interior : Paper of great freshness, very clean. Gatherings perfectly secure, binding firmly attached. Absence of needle holes or major foxing. Edges gilt sparkling.

A magnificent testament to the gift and prize bindings of the late 19th century, in a state of remarkable freshness, becoming rare in this condition.