Descrizione

Two volumes in one, complete. First edition of this rare and important collection, not to be confused with another book of the same title published in 1663. Barbier (IV, 88) offers a long citation from Nodier (Catalogue Guilbert de Pixerecourt, no. 1639): "Ce petit recueil est tres-connu, mais il merite de l'etre, car il se distingue de toutes les collections du meme genre par le choix des pieces, et aucune autre n'en peut tenir lieu." Nodier goes on to explain, with convincing argumentation, that this is in fact a personal choice printed by a collector with good taste, and not by a professional publisher. Nicely printed on fine laid paper. 12mo. Beautifully bound in contemporary calf, spine gilt, with Padget (Paget) coat of arms (motto: "Per il suo contrario") embossed on both boards. Light wear to extremities but structurally sound and still very attractive. Internally bright and fine. An excellent copy. Brunet IV, 1156: "Rare et assez curieux."