SALMON (André). — Images of Old Paris. Drypoints by Charles - Lot 257

SALMON (André). — Images of Old Paris. Drypoints by Charles Samson. Paris, Les Heures Claires, 1951. In-8, loose-leaf, with a lined cover, publisher’s slipcase and case. First edition, illustrated with 12 original drypoint engravings by Charles Samson, printed by Manuel Robbe and hand-colored. A beautiful evocation of old Paris and its private mansions, notably the Clisson, Sully, Birague, and Beauvais mansions, illustrated with architectural views finely engraved by Samson. Copy No. 56, one of 100 hand-colored copies to which a suite of black-and-white engravings was added, numbered 13 through 112. The first edition comprises 12 hand-colored copies, each enhanced with an original drawing and a set of black-and-white engravings; 100 copies, including this one, with a set of black-and-white engravings; and 200 copies, also hand-colored. The set of 12 black drypoint engravings is present. This is an important point to highlight in the catalog entry: a comparable copy featuring the 12 colored prints and the set of 12 black engravings is currently listed on the market. Complete copy in its publisher’s slipcase. The cover and slipcase are heavily pitted and stained, with significant water stains, particularly on the edges and cuts; some marks and signs of wear. A few scattered foxing spots. The interior, however, remains well-preserved overall, and the colored drypoints retain their freshness.