HOFFMANN (E. T. A.). — Fantastic Tales. Paris: Charpentier, - Lot 136

HOFFMANN (E. T. A.). — Fantastic Tales. Paris: Charpentier, Bookseller and Publisher, 28 quai de l'École, 1860. In-12, new translation by Xavier Marmier, preceded by a note on Hoffmann by the translator. This edition includes, among others, “The Cremona Violin,” “The Singing Masters,” “Mademoiselle de Scudéri,” “The Majorat,” “Master Martin and His Workers,” “Happiness at the Gambling Table,” “The Choice of a Bride,” “Marino Falieri,” “Don Juan,” and “The Vow.” Institutional bibliographies confirm this 1860 Charpentier edition and Marmier’s translation; several editions of this collection were published by Charpentier in the 19th century. A very fine copy, fully rebound in a high-quality modern binding: green half-maroquin with corner caps, a spine with four raised bands, the author’s name and title gilded, covers lined with matching marbled paper in shades of green, pink, yellow, and black, endpapers replaced, and a green silk bookmark. The original covers have been preserved, which is particularly noteworthy: the first cover is a printed yellow cover featuring the title, X. Marmier’s translation, the list of the ten tales, and Charpentier’s address; the Charpentier Library catalog is preserved at the end of the volume. The title page is indeed dated 1860. Xavier Marmier’s translation plays an important role in the French reception of Hoffmann: it first appeared at Charpentier in the 1840s and was constantly reprinted, notably in 1852, 1858, 1860, and 1866, prior to the editions expanded to include a study by Théophile Gautier. A few scattered foxing spots and discoloration, more noticeable on the preserved covers and certain leaves; a small weakness or visible marginal tear on one leaf. A very attractive, perfectly bound copy of this Romantic edition of *Tales of the Fantastic*.