Lemaistre de Sacy; Albert Decaris - David et Salomon - 1933

This is a monumental and highly coveted achievement in 20th-century French bibliophilia, published in an exceptionally exclusive print run of just 130 copies by Les Cent Bibliophiles under the direction of Henri Vever.
The text presents the epic biblical histories of David and Solomon in the revered classical French translation by Lemaistre de Sacy. However, the true centerpiece of this magnificent folio is the breathtaking artwork. Master engraver Albert Decaris—a winner of the prestigious Grand Prix de Rome and member of the Académie des Beaux-Arts—contributed an astonishing 95 original burin engravings to this volume, 54 of which are striking full-page (hors-texte) plates.
Decaris's bold, deeply contrasting, and dramatic line work perfectly captures the tension and grandeur of the Old Testament narratives—from David's legendary battle with Goliath to majestic royal portraits and churning naval fleets. The elegant typography, set in large Médiæval Hollandais Plantin, was expertly pressed by Pierre Bouchet, while the intricate engravings were printed by Edmond Rigal.
As a highly limited, nominative copy on luxurious Vélin d'Arches paper, this complete set in its original publisher's slipcase is a museum-quality acquisition for collectors of fine engravings, religious art, and elite French printing.