Wove paper, invented by James Whatman for the English publisher John Baskerville, is distinguishable by the absence of chain and wire lines in its overall finish.
It earned its French name “papier vélin” for its similar appearance to the ancient vellum skin that preceded the invention of paper. Over the centuries, some very rare copies were still printed on vellum calfskin, as a special order for distinguished patrons.
Smooth and satiny, generally perfectly white, wove paper is homogeneous, without grain or texture. The reader appreciates its clarity rather than its innate beauty. The frequently attached term "Pur fil", means "abundant" (but rarely an exclusive composition) in linen and hemp, like the rag papers of yesteryear. Its supple feel invites insatiable reading and is ideal for the discovery of unknown texts and new authors.
First edition, one of 40 copies printed on Crèvecoeur du Marais paper, the only copies on deluxe paper.
A pleasant copy, despite a faint sunning at the foot of the spine.
First edition of the French translation, one of 44 numbered copies on pur fil, the only copies printed on deluxe paper.
Spine very slightly sunned without consequence, bookplate affixed to the verso of the front cover, a handsome copy.
First edition, one of 1,500 copies printed on vellum paper, this one unnumbered.
A handsome copy.
Illustrated with a frontispiece by Jean Berque.
Exceptional full-page signed presentation inscription from Abel Bonnard to Hubert Lyautey, the first Resident-General of the French Protectorate in Morocco: "A monsieur le maréchal Lyautey, qui, marmi tant d'autres illustres, a aussi sauvé la beauté du Maroc. En respectueux hommage. Abel Bonnard."
First edition, one of 62 numbered copies on madagascar paper, deluxe copy.
Some light foxing affecting mainly the edges.
Half dark blue morocco binding, spine with five raised bands, cat's-eye paper boards, combed paper endpapers and pastedowns, original wrappers and spine preserved, top edge gilt, binding signed by Devauchelle.
Handsome copy beautifully executed.
First edition of the French translation, one of 150 numbered copies on pur fil, the only deluxe copies issued after 25 copies on Holland paper.
A fine copy with all edges untrimmed.
First edition, printed in 105 copies on Rives wove paper, this copy being one of the 60 with an original etching signed in pencil by Annie Proszynska.
Colophon signed in pencil by both Guy Rohou and Annie Proszynska.
Illustrated with 15 original etchings by Annie Proszynska, including a frontispiece, a full-page plate, a double-page plate, and 12 in-text illustrations.
A fine copy, complete with its original Siena moiré cloth chemise and slipcase.
First edition, one of 120 numbered copies on Lafuma pure wove paper, the only large-paper issue.
Endpapers very slightly and marginally toned, two small tears at foot of spine.
A rare and much sought-after copy in original state.
First edition printed by "Cercle nouveau du livre" before the deluxe edition by Julliard a few months later, one of the numbered copies, the only printing.
Very handsome copy complete with its rhodoid.
Publisher's binding in full green cloth, smooth spine, title and author's name stamped in gilt on the front cover.
First edition, one of 35 numbered copies on deluxe paper, the only deluxe copies.
Rare and handsome copy.
