Paul Hervieu / Madeleine Lemaire - Flirt [Reliure signée de Louis Pouillet] - 1890

First edition of the novel by Paul Hervieu (1857-1915), housed in a sublime binding signed by Louis Pouillet in blue night half Morocco with corner panels, double gold fillets along the covers and corners, smooth spine decorated with an elaborate floral design, with mosaic flowers in red leather and gilt stamping. Title piece in brown morocco, gilt head. Covers and spine preserved.

Illustrated work with 36 engravings printed by photogravure from the watercolors of Madelaine Lemaire (1845-1928), including 18 large black compositions on full pages and 18 headpieces and tailpieces in sepia color.

Provenance: Ex-libris with the initials A.O. glued to the pastedown (see photos).

Paul Hervieu (1857-1915) was a French writer, playwright, and academic. Born in Neuilly-sur-Seine, he began his career as a lawyer before turning to literature. He wrote psychological novels and plays, often focusing on moral and social dilemmas. A member of the French Academy from 1900, he was close to Jules Lemaître and the Paris literary scene.

Condition; Binding in excellent condition, minor scuffs on corners and headcaps. Some scattered foxing, without severity. Fine print of engravings. Beautiful copy, in good overall condition.

Paul Hervieu / Madeleine Lemaire
Flirt
Paris, 1890, Boussod, Valadon & Cie
in-4 (32x25cm)
213 pages