LA FONTAINE (Jean de). La Fontaine's Fables. - Lot 199

LA FONTAINE (Jean de). La Fontaine's Fables. Illustrations by Grandville. Paris, Garnier Frères, 1859. Large 8vo, contemporary green half-shagreen binding, decorated and gilt ribbed spine, green percaline covers with cold-stamped designs. A beautiful illustrated edition of La Fontaine’s Fables, enriched by the famous illustrations of Grandville (1803–1847), whose anthropomorphic interpretations of animals profoundly shaped the iconography of the 19th century. Through the combination of La Fontaine’s moralistic genius and Grandville’s satirical imagination, this edition ranks among the most captivating illustrated publications intended for the cultured general public of the Second Empire. The engravings, full of verve and keen observation, offer a fresh perspective on the fables by emphasizing their social and political significance. Even today, they remain one of the most iconic representations of the fabulist’s work. This copy is in a decorative contemporary binding, retaining all its bibliophilic character and bearing witness to the circulation of the major illustrated editions published by Garnier. Condition The binding shows some scuffing and minor wear to the head and foot caps, joints, and corners. The interior is relatively fresh, with a few scattered foxing spots. Overall, a solid and attractive volume.