Antique French Book "Le Tribut des Muses" circa 1819

The binding is a French "cartonnage" or hard paper board binding It is of a rich and luscious rose pink hue. Each cover board has been embossed with a classic design. The central figure is surrounded by a frame which consists of longbows, garland wreaths, arabesques and a medallion face. The spine bears the title and is enhanced by scrolls. The box features another young muse, Clio, sitting upon a rock, admiring an outstretched scroll. The wide framing band features scrolls, baskets, arabesques and a little medallion with three cherubs running. The spine of the box is ornamented in six panels with flowers and scrolls. The pages edges of the binding are gilt tipped. It measures: 4 3/4" x 3 1/8" x 1/2" thick.

The text is one of the most varied texts that we have seen. In includes a frontispiece vignette engraving of the muse, Calliope, whose domain is epic poetry. There are six full page engravings which include, "L'Amour Jardiniere" (from the poem) and "L'Interieur de l'atelier du Raphael". The text includes, romantic histories, airs, poetry and short prose. There are eight pages of musical airs at the end of the text. The book bears a "cachet" stamp from the the bibliotheque of the consulate of Chili, "Lucien Jannin, Consul de Chili" as well as his ex-libris.

The binding remains in excellent condition, with little wear. The color is rich and bright. The edges are crisp and not frayed. The page edges as new. The box is faded and worn, serving almost 200 years to protect the inner binding (it did an excellent job). It has been bent in a little at the base, but is still solid and useable.

The provenance of the binding adds to the charm and historical value.

Item ID: LC107