Antique French Book: "Le Roy Soleil" circa 1904

Antique French Book: "Le Roy Soleil" circa 1904

An uncommon first edition printing of this much-sought-after title, it was published by the Ancienne Librairie Furne/Boivin & Cie in Paris in 1904. The binding is of a hard pictorial blue cloth, with a magnificent polychrome front cover illustration featuring Louis XIV in all his shimmering glory. The pages are gilt edged and the book size is 12" x 14". The text is in the original French language. This first edition features Japanese endpapers which hold the repeating of design gilt sunshines (the symbol of Louis XIV) placed on a deep midnight background. The binding is in very good condition.

This title is a part of the "Collection d'Albums Historiques" which was published in Paris in the early 1900's. Published as a collectable series, the bookbinder and publisher spared no expense in producing the finest work available. The 36 spectacular full-page chromolithograph illustrations (34 single page and 2 double page) are meticulously executed and have an almost "3-D" effect. The text leaves are placed on linen guards to enhance this effect for the viewer.

The text presents, in fabulous cinematographic detail, the life of the famous French king, Louis XIV. Known as France's Sun King, Louis XIV had the longest reign in European history (1643-1715). During his reign he brought absolute monarchy to its height and fought most of the other European countries in four wars. He founded a sparkling court at Versailles and was responsible for much money being lavished on buildings in Paris and its surrounding area.

This spectacular first edition title is rarely found in today's market.

Item ID: LC97

$695 USD

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