Les Amours (extra-illustrated)

Paris; [1924): L'Editions D'Art. Limited Edition. 12mo. A limited edition of 1600 sets of the text. (100 copies on Japon) The present set is # 912 on pure white and Kleber wire rod. A unique set of this work in three volumes, 281, 205, and 264pp. with a preface by Albert Pauphilet. Each volume was illustrated in watercolor and pencil sketches by Georges Pavis (1886-1951), French painter, illustrator, and humorist containing his charming and erotically light-hearted illustrations to Ronsard's love poems originally published in 1584. This special set contains 30 original illustrations in rich watercolor and 30 matching original preliminary pencil sketches of the watercolor nudes, lovers, seductions, and other whimsical erotic endeavors, bound in at the rear. Each pencil drawing is presented on various lined or unlined papers. This set was originally issued without illustrations. These illustrations were added by Pavis as a personal undertaking to enhance this unique collection for his personal library, a friend or special collector, or possibly for the library of Kieffer. All finely bound by Kieffer in light brown grained morocco decorated with branches or quills and line flourishes in gilt, spine lettered and decorated in gilt, floral endpapers, top edges gilt with original wrappers bound in by Rene Kieffer's bookbindery and publisher with his mounted ticket. An extraordinary set.