MUSSET (Alfred de), Tales. - Lot 247

MUSSET (Alfred de), Tales. Paris, Charpentier, Bookseller and Publisher, 1861. In-12, elegant contemporary binding in red half-maroquin with corner pieces, spine finely decorated and gilt, gilt head. A collection of several of Alfred de Musset’s most famous stories, published as part of the author’s collected works by Charpentier. This volume notably includes *La Mouche*, *Pierre et Camille*, *Mademoiselle Mimi Pinson*, *Le Secret de Javotte*, *Le Merle blanc*, as well as the *Lettres sur la Littérature*, offering a remarkable glimpse into the various facets of the writer’s talent. Although less well-known than his plays or poetry, Musset’s short stories nevertheless occupy a central place in his body of work. They embody that characteristic blend of elegance, fantasy, irony, and melancholy that made him one of the most representative writers of French Romanticism. Beneath the apparent lightness of the narrative, a keen observation of character, reflections on love, and a profoundly modern sensibility constantly shine through. Among the collected texts is the famous *Mimi Pinson*, a figure who has become emblematic of the young Parisian grisette of the 19th century. In it, Musset paints a tender and vivid portrait of a working-class, sentimental Paris that would leave a lasting mark on the French literary imagination. Other stories, such as *Le Merle blanc* and *Le Secret de Javotte*, demonstrate his penchant for fantasy, moral tales, and light satire. This edition, published during the author’s lifetime, belongs to the prestigious Charpentier collection, which played a major role in introducing the great writers of the 19th century to the educated public. It is of particular interest to Musset enthusiasts and collectors of first editions or early editions of his works. A fine copy in an elegant period binding of red half-maroquin with corner caps and a richly decorated ribbed spine. Some slight wear from use; interior well preserved. A particularly appealing collection of Musset’s prose stories, offering readers the chance to discover a lesser-known yet essential aspect of one of the most brilliant writers of French Romanticism.