A. Bertrand

First edition? Title page with sphere device. Elzevier edition published at the same time as a Parisian edition by Augustin Courbé, illustrated. It is not clear why the Elzevier edition would be the original, as nothing could have prevented Chapelain from publishing a work in Paris that the entire literary world was awaiting; it would be more coherent to consider that the 1656 Courbé edition is the first and that the Leiden edition was composed from it.
Full red morocco binding, late 19th century, signed A. Bertrand. Jansenist spine with raised bands. Gilt title. Wide inner decorative border. Light rubbing to headcaps and joints at head. Handsome copy.
Literary critic and translator of Guzman de Alfarache, Jean Chapelain enjoyed a certain notoriety, particularly in literary salons; he was preparing an epic poem that was to place a halo on his head, the famous Pucelle; but the first 12 cantos that appeared in 1656 did not meet with the expected success and the last 12 that were to complete the poem never appeared. Chapelain was criticized and even mocked, notably by Boileau, later by Voltaire. He retained his credit in high circles since Colbert charged him with establishing the list of artists who were to receive subsidies from the government.
Engraved bookplate of Yves Refoulé.