PHILIPPE (Charles-Louis). *Le Père Perdrix*. - Lot 253

PHILIPPE (Charles-Louis). *Le Père Perdrix*. Thirty-two original woodcuts by Deslignères. Paris, André Coq, 1921. Large quarto, paperback, with the publisher’s printed cover. An illustrated edition of one of the most representative works by Charles-Louis Philippe (1874–1909), a major writer in French social literature at the turn of the 20th century. Through the character of Père Perdrix, a modest provincial craftsman confronted with poverty, old age, and the hardships of daily life, the author displays the profound humanity and concern for the humble that define the originality of his work. The illustrations include thirty-two original woodcuts by Deslignères, several of which are full-page, executed in a vigorous expressionist style particularly suited to the rustic and poignant atmosphere of the story. These engravings represent one of the most notable achievements in French book illustration of the interwar period. Limited edition of 660 numbered copies. This is one of 545 copies printed on Van Gelder Holland paper, numbered 472, following 10 copies on old Japanese paper and 105 copies on Imperial Japanese paper, each enriched with original prints and drawings. Copy preserved in its original slipcase. The cover is slightly faded with a few foxing spots and signs of age. The interior is in very fresh condition, complete with its engraved woodcuts. A beautiful illustrated edition of a classic by Charles-Louis Philippe, sought after for the quality of Deslignères’ engraved woodcuts and for its limited print run on fine paper.