Signed Books, Presentation Copies

First edition, one of 105 numbered copies on pure cotton paper, the only deluxe copies.
A handsome copy.
Autograph inscription signed by Roger Grenier to Joseph Breitbach.
We include a New Year's card from Gallimard for 1996 on which Roger Grenier presents his wishes to Joseph Breitbach.

First edition on ordinary paper.
Bradel binding in full decorative patterned paper, smooth spine lightly browned, brown shagreen title-label with some scratches, original wrappers preserved, top edge gilt, contemporary binding.
Endpapers partially shadowed, handsome copy.
Precious autograph inscription from Charles Vildrac to Jean Schlumberger, one of the 6 founders of the Nrf.
Below the autograph inscription, a manuscript note by Jean Schlumberger, as a gift, to his friend Joseph Breitbach: "Légitimement en possession de J.B." (Legitimately in J.B.'s possession)
Provenance: from the libraries of Jean Schlumberger then Joseph Breitbach.
In 1929, the German writer and francophile Joseph Breitbach came to France and settled in Paris two years later. His books banned in Germany from 1933, he then applied for French nationality in 1937 while returning his German passport, making him stateless. Arrested in 1939 as a German native, Jean Schlumberger had him released, which sealed the beginning of a long friendship.

First Nrf edition, one of 112 numbered copies on pur fil paper reimposed in Tellière quarto format, ours one of 8 hors commerce lettered copies, deluxe issue.
Our hors commerce copy bearing the letter "b" was traditionally reserved for Jean Schlumberger, one of the 6 founders of the Nrf.
At the head of the half-title page, manuscript note by Jean Schlumberger, as a gift, to his friend Joseph Breitbach and quoting a thought by Michel de Montaigne : "Vingt septembre 1961, en la vraie amitié de laquelle je suis expert... (Montaigne III9) J.Schlumberger."
Provenance: from the libraries of Jean Schlumberger then Joseph Breitbach.
In 1929, the German writer and francophile Joseph Breitbach came to France and settled in Paris two years later. His books banned in Germany from 1933, he then applied for French nationality in 1937 while returning his German passport, making him stateless. Arrested in 1939 as a German native, Jean Schlumberger had him released, which sealed the beginning of a long friendship.

First collected edition, one of the Service de Presse copies.
Handsome copy complete with its publisher's slip.
Fine autograph inscription signed by Arthur Adamov to Joseph Breitbach: "... du fond des années ce Paolo-Paoli (pour lequel il fit tant) suivi de ses cadets. Très amicalement. arthur adamov." (...from the depths of years this Paolo-Paoli (for which he did so much) followed by his juniors. Very cordially. arthur adamov.)

First collected edition, a Service de Presse (advance) copy.
Handsome copy.
Fine autograph inscription signed by Arthur Adamov to Joseph Breitbach: "... qui m'a fait tant plaisir en aimant le ping-pong et aussi... avec toute l'amitié de arthur adamov." (... who gave me such pleasure in loving ping-pong and also... with all the friendship of arthur adamov.)

Illustrated edition with original vignettes and head-pieces by Valentin Le Campion, one of 20 lettered hors commerce copies on auvergne, most limited issue.
Some spoting, fragile joints of slipcase and chemise. 
Ex-libris pasted on the verso of the slipcase, manuscript ex-dono inscription in blue ball-point pen.
Signed and inscribed by Charles De Gaulle to Georges Wurm.
 

First edition in French, of which there were no deluxe copies.

Foxing to spine and margins of boards, retaining the dust jacket which has small marginal tears.

Rare dated autograph inscription signed by William Styron to journalist Paule Villers.

First edition, one of 40 numbered copies on alfa paper, the only deluxe copies.
Fine copy.
Fine autograph inscription signed by Jean-Louis Curtis to Joseph Breitbach "A mon cher Joseph, pour qui (et il le prouve à chaque instant) l'âge n'a pas de sens , avec mon amical souvenir, Jean-Louis Curtis. (Je t'avais adressé naturellement, un exemplaire de l'édition courante à ton adresse de Paris. L'as-tu reçu ?" (To my dear Joseph, for whom (and he proves it at every moment) age has no meaning, with my friendly regards, Jean-Louis Curtis. (I had naturally sent you a copy of the ordinary edition to your Paris address. Did you receive it?)"

The first edition, of which there were no deluxe copies, one of the service de presse copies.
Handsome copy complete with publisher's slip.
Rare and fine autograph inscription signed by Piotr Rawicz to Joseph Breitbach: "... j'aimerais beaucoup, Joseph, que vous puissiez considérer ce livre comme un livre complice. J'aurais voulu vous montrer le manuscrit, mais il était impossible de vous joindre. Appelez-moi Joseph : 531-37-53. Avec mon amitié et ma reconnaissance. Piotr." (...I would very much like, Joseph, for you to consider this book as an accomplice book. I would have liked to show you the manuscript, but it was impossible to reach you. Call me Joseph: 531-37-53. With my friendship and gratitude. Piotr.)

First edition, one of 34 numbered copies on alfa paper, the only deluxe copies.
Handsome copy.
Fine autograph inscription signed by Madeleine Chapsal to Joseph Breitbach: "... qui a toutes les curiosités (même celle de lire ce livre) et plus rare encore, le coeur de tout comprendre. Son amie Madeleine Chapsal le 23 mars 1965." (...who has all curiosities (even that of reading this book) and rarer still, the heart to understand everything. His friend Madeleine Chapsal March 23, 1965.)

First edition, one of 50 numbered copies on pur fil, the only deluxe copies.
Illustrations in and hors-texte by Marcel Jullian after Salvador Dali, Pablo Picasso, Jean Cocteau, Raoul Dufy, Honoré Daumier, Auguste Renoir; preface by Pierre Gaxotte.
Handsome copy of this amusing series of literary pastiches by Colette, Stendhal, George Sand, André Gide, Jean Cocteau, André Breton retracing the very rich hours of the Morot-Chandonneur family.
Autograph inscription signed by Philippe Jullian, who also signed for Bernard Minoret, to Joseph Breitbach enriched with an original drawing in blue ink depicting the two authors offering a bouquet of flowers to the dedicatee in front of the sculpted entrance of the Morot-Chandonneur house.

First edition, one of 26 numbered copies on alfa paper, ours one of 14 hors commerce copies, the only deluxe copies.
Handsome copy.
Autograph inscription signed by Marcel Schneider to Joseph Breitbach: "A mon cher Joseph, ce portrait où je me peins à travers ce que j'admire et que j'aime..." (To my dear Joseph, this portrait where I paint myself through what I admire and love...)

First edition, one of the Service de Presse (advance) copies.
Handsome copy.
Fine autograph inscription signed by Arthur Adamov to Joseph Breitbach: "... ce personnage litigieux avec lequel je suis si heureux qu'il se soit un peu réconcilié, avec l'amitié (et la gratitude) de arthur adamov."

First edition, one of 40 numbered copies on pur fil paper, ours being one of the 5 hors commerce copies, the only deluxe copies after 15 on Holland paper.
Full red sheep binding, spine slightly faded with five raised bands set with black fillets, gilt date at foot, marbled endpapers and pastedowns, top edge gilt, original wrappers and spine preserved, slipcase with red sheep borders, red paper boards.
Fine full-page autograph inscription signed by René Etiemble to Joseph Breitbach.

First edition, one of 40 numbered copies on Holland paper, ours one of the 10 hors commerce copies.
A handsome full-margined copy.
Autograph inscription signed by Julien Green to a close friend whom he affectionately nicknamed Beppo.

First edition, of which there were no deluxe copies.
Handsome copy.
Iconography.
Moving and precious autograph inscription signed by Pierre Sipriot to Henri de Montherlanr's adopted son: "Pour Jean Claude Barat à qui ce livre doit tant. Dans le souvenir d'un homme admirable. Pierre Sipriot." (For Jean Claude Barat to whom this book owes so much. In memory of an admirable man. Pierre Sipriot.)

First edition, one of 56 numbered copies on pur fil for each volume.
Handsome set to which we add the third volume on ordinary paper and without inscription.
Autograph inscription signed by Jean Dutourd to Joseph Breitbach on each volume: "... ces petites idées plus ou moins philosophiques." (... these little more or less philosophical ideas.) on the first volume; "... en attendant le tome III avec l'amitié de Jean Dutourd..." (... awaiting volume III with the friendship of Jean Dutourd...) on the second volume.
Manuscript notes by the dedicatee, in pencil, on the last pages of the first two volumes.

First Gallimard edition, a Service de Presse (advance) copy.
Two small lacks and two small tears at head and foot of spine.
Autograph inscription dated and signed by Jean Paulhan to Joseph Breitbach.

First edition on ordinary paper.
Handsome copy despite a small tear at foot of spine.
Precious and fine autograph inscription signed by Gabriel Matzneff: "Pour Henry de Montherlant, ce feu qui brûle sur les grèves du mare nostrum, en fidèle hommage. Gabriel Matzneff" (For Henry de Montherlant, this fire that burns on the shores of mare nostrum, in faithful homage. Gabriel Matzneff)
An admirer of Henri de Montherlant who committed suicide on September 21, 1972, Gabriel Matzneff scattered, in Rome, with his friend Jean-Claude Barat, the writer's ashes among the stones of the temple of Fortuna Virilis and into the Tiber.
Some reading marks and annotations in blue ballpoint pen by Henry de Montherlant in the margins of certain paragraphs, the last two pages of the work are covered with annotations by Henri de Montherlant.

First edition, one of 50 numbered copies on pur fil paper.
A handsome copy with full margins.
Autograph inscription signed by Julien Green to his friend Joseph Breitbach.

First edition, one of 80 numbered copies on Holland paper, ours being one of the few hors commerce copies.
A handsome copy.
Work illustrated with a color frontispiece by Hermann Paul as well as a vignette on the cover, headpieces and wood-engraved initials after Abel Brunyer.
Manuscript signature of Henri de Montherlant between the half-title page and the frontispiece.

First edition printed on ordinary paper.
Handsome copy.
Fine and beautiful autograph inscription signed by Gabriel Matzneff: "Pour Henry de Montherlant, qui, comme il le lira ici, était avec moi à Palmyre, son vieux Lucilius. Gabriel Matzneff"
An admirer of Henri de Montherlant who committed suicide on 21 September 1972, Gabriel Matzneff scattered, in Rome, with his friend Jean-Claude Barat, the writer's ashes among the stones of the temple of Fortuna Virilis and into the Tiber.
Some reading marks and annotations in blue ballpoint pen by Henry de Montherlant in margins of certain paragraphs and on the rear endpaper.

First edition, one of 500 numbered copies on Arches laid paper.
Work illustrated with 25 American railroad route maps.
Spine skillfully restored, discreet crease marks to corners.
Superb livre-objet, like the Prose du Transsibérien which was composed in the same period, the poem is presented folded. The second cover in bright red executed by Raoul Dufy resembles the railway timetables that one slipped into one's pocket: "Le nom de Cendrars orne une bouée de sauvetage, associant l'auctorité d'avant-garde au travail de sauvetage, dans une décennie marquée par les catastrophes maritimes, du Titanic au Lusitania" (The name of Cendrars adorns a life preserver, associating avant-garde authority with rescue work, in a decade marked by maritime disasters, from the Titanic to the Lusitania) (Sophie Esch).
Rare early autograph inscription, signed and dated December 1918 on this text by Blaise Cendrars to Georges Le Cardonnel, literary critic who co-wrote with Charles Vellay, La Littérature contemporaine, a survey conducted among French critics, writers and poets. The year following the inscription, he would sign a review of J'ai tué in la Minerve française.

First edition, one of 894 numbered copies on pur fil paper, ours one of the 30 hors commerce copies.
Our hors commerce copy bearing the letter "b" was traditionally reserved for Jean Schlumberger, one of the 6 founders of the Nrf.
Spine with minor tears of no consequence, some worming affecting principally the endpapers.
Autograph inscription signed by Roger Vitrac to Jean Schlumberger.
Below the autograph inscription, Jean Schlumberger has written this amusing note, as a gift to his friend Joseph Breitbach: "Confié vierge à Joseph Breitbach JS 1er août 60. JS."
Provenance: from the libraries of Jean Schlumberger then Joseph Breitbach.
In 1929, the German writer and francophile Joseph Breitbach came to France and settled in Paris two years later. His books banned in Germany from 1933, he then applied for French nationality in 1937 while returning his German passport, making him stateless. Arrested in 1939 as a German native, Jean Schlumberger would have him released, which sealed the beginning of a long friendship.

First edition, one of 944 numbered copies on pur fil paper, ours one of the 30 hors commerce copies.
Our hors commerce copy bearing the letter "b" was traditionally reserved for Jean Schlumberger, one of the 6 founders of the Nrf.
Spine lightly sunned, otherwise a handsome copy complete with its publisher's slip.
Autograph inscription signed by Paul Léautaud to Jean Schlumberger.
Below the autograph inscription, Jean Schlumberger has written this note, as a gift to his friend Joseph Breitbach: "Et pour l'amusement de J.B. JS."
Provenance: from the libraries of Jean Schlumberger then Joseph Breitbach.
In 1929, the German writer and francophile Joseph Breitbach came to France and settled in Paris two years later. His books banned in Germany from 1933, he then applied for French nationality in 1937 while returning his German passport, making him stateless. Arrested in 1939 as a German native, Jean Schlumberger would have him released, which sealed the beginning of a long friendship.

First edition, one of 25 numbered copies on pure Arches laid paper.
A handsome copy.
Autograph inscription signed by Jean Dutourd to Joseph Breitbach's companion Wolfgang Mettmann: "... qui n'a pas assez de livres sur ses rayonnages, son ami." (... who doesn't have enough books on his shelves, his friend.)

First edition, one of 85 numbered copies on pur fil paper.
Handsome copy.
Autograph inscription signed by Jean Dutourd to Joseph Breitbach: "... ces petites histoires du temps que j'étais maigre..."

First edition on ordinary paper.
The work also includes a Poetic Suite composed of one hundred and fifteen unpublished poems by Jean Cocteau.
Iconography and drawings by Jean Cocteau.
Spine slightly creased as usual, otherwise handsome copy.
Autograph inscription signed by Jean Marais to Jean-Claude Barat, adoptive son of Henri de Montherlant.

First collected edition, one of the numbered copies on Navarre vellum.
Spine slightly browned with small scratches at the joints.
Copy complete with the 8 loose text pages by friend and publisher René Bertelé.
Autograph inscription signed by Henri Michaux to Josef (sic) Breitbach: "... puisse-t-il au moins honorer un de ces passages qui l'intéresse..." ("...may it at least honor one of these passages that interests him...")

First edition in volume form, one of 133 numbered copies on pure paper reimposed in Tellière quarto format, ours one of 8 hors commerce lettered copies, from the deluxe issue.
Our hors commerce copy bearing the letter "b" was traditionally reserved for Jean Schlumberger, one of the 6 founders of the NRF.
Handsome copy despite the first two signatures which tend to come loose.
Foreword by Tancrède de Visan.
At the head of the half-title page, manuscript note by Jean Schlumberger, as a gift to his friend Joseph Breitbach for his 58th birthday, quoting a verse by Jean de La Fontaine from the fable "Les deux amis": "... Un songe, un rien tout lui fait peur quand il s'agit de ce qu'il aime. La Fontaine. Pour l'anniversaire de Jospeh 61. J.S." ("...A dream, a trifle frightens him when it concerns what he loves. La Fontaine. For Joseph's birthday 61. J.S.")
Provenance: from the libraries of Jean Schlumberger then Joseph Breitbach.
In 1929, the German writer and francophile Joseph Breitbach came to France and settled in Paris two years later. His books banned in Germany from 1933, he then applied for French nationality in 1937 while returning his German passport, making him stateless. Arrested in 1939 as a German native, Jean Schlumberger secured his release, sealing the beginning of a long friendship.

First edition, a Service de Presse (advance) copy.
Covers marginally and lightly spotted, scratches to spine.
Autograph inscription signed by Michel Tournier to Joseph Breitbach.

New edition, first edition of some parts as it is expanded, one of 50 numbered copies on pur fil paper.
A handsome full-margined copy.
Autograph inscription signed by Julien Green to his friend Joseph Breitbach.

The first edition, of which there were no deluxe copies.
Handsome copy of Bernard Pivot's first work.
Autograph inscription signed by Bernard Pivot: "Pour monsieur Joseph Breitbach, cette petite chose écrite dans l'inquiétude amusée de mes 20 ans. En amical hommage à l'auteur du "Liftier amoureux" B. Pivot." (For Mr. Joseph Breitbach, this little thing written in the amused anxiety of my 20 years. In friendly tribute to the author of "Liftier amoureux" B. Pivot.)

First edition, one of 43 numbered copies on pur fil, the only deluxe copies.
Handsome copy.
Autograph inscription signed by Jean Dutourd to Joseph Breitbach enhanced with an original drawing representing a dog's head: "A Joseph Breitbach cette autobiographie avec mon amitié" (To Joseph Breitbach this autobiography with my friendship).

First edition, one of 300 copies on alfa paper reserved for the press service.
Handsome copy despite two small tears neatly repaired at head of spine.
Autograph inscription dated 1947 and signed by Julien Green to his friend Joseph Breitbach.

First edition, one of 370 numbered copies on alfama paper.
Handsome copy.
Autograph inscription signed by Roger Peyrefitte to Joseph Breitbach: "Pour Joseph Breitbach auteur lecteur ami également admirable. Peyrefitte..." (To Joseph Breitbach author reader friend equally admirable. Peyrefitte...)

First edition, one of 20 numbered copies on Guérimand coloured vellum, the only deluxe copies after 15 on Holland paper.
Spine and boards very slightly and marginally lightened, handsome copy.
Autograph inscription signed by Jean Dutourd to Joseph Breitbach: "... cette histoire où on joue à cache-cache avec les personnages, amicalement Dutourd..." ("...this story where we play hide-and-seek with the characters, with friendship Dutourd...")

First edition, one of 70 numbered copies on laid paper.
Handsome copy.
Autograph inscription signed by Jean Dutourd to Joseph Breitbach: "... avec les compliments de Schnorr, Tronche, Baba et Jean Dutourd." ("...with compliments from Schnorr, Tronche, Baba and Jean Dutourd.")
Manuscript notes by the recipient, in pencil, at the head of the rear endpaper.

First edition, one of 35 numbered copies on colored parchment paper, the only deluxe copies after 30 Holland.
Spine and covers slightly and marginally lightened, handsome copy.
Autograph inscription signed by Jean Dutourd to Joseph Breitbach: "... qui m'a connu vers la page 200..." (... who knew me around page 200...)

First edition, one of 99 numbered copies on annam paper, ours one of the few hors commerce copies.
Handsome copy.
Work illustrated with a color frontispiece by Hermann Paul as well as a vignette on the cover, headpieces and wood-engraved initials after Abel Brunyer.
Autograph signature of Henri de Montherlant between the half-title page and the frontispiece.

First edition printed in 250 numbered copies signed by Don in pencil on the justification page.
The work contains 36 plates of drawings printed separately and hand-colored by André Dantan.
Introduction by J. Trarieux.
We include a notice indicating that the exhibition of the original drawings from this album will take place at the Casino de Deauville from July 15 to August 31, 1931.
A very handsome copy complete with its very fragile red paper cover with very light scratches of no consequence, the slipcase is lacking.

Strictly hors commerce first edition reserved for members of the "Les fêtes du peuple" group, one of 20 numbered copies on Japan paper, deluxe copy.
Handsome and rare copy despite minor spotting of no consequence to the boards.
Below the justification page, autograph inscription signed by Jean Marguerite to the anarchist militant, revolutionary syndicalist, socialist then communist Amédée Dunois who died in deportation at Bergen-Belsen on March 21, 1945.
Founded by musician Albert Doyen, "Les fêtes du peuple" is an independent art group, in communion with all efforts, individual or collective, working towards the emancipation of mankind.
We include press clippings and documents concerning Albert Doyen and his disappearance.

First edition, one of 300 numbered copies on handmade Arches vellum.
Some light foxing.
Autograph inscription dated and signed by Henri de Montherlant: "A mon ami Louis Fabulet, ces pages monastiques, en revenant de Tiffauges et de Saint Wandrille avec le souvenir très amical du 12 août 1930. Montherlant" (To my friend Louis Fabulet, these monastic pages, returning from Tiffauges and Saint Wandrille with very friendly memory of August 12, 1930. Montherlant).
On the tissue paper covering the copy, Henri de Montherlant has inscribed in blue ballpoint pen: "Entièrement passé dans la Pléiade essais" (Entirely included in the Pléiade essays).

First edition, one of 875 numbered copies on vergé de rives paper, ours unnumbered.
Work illustrated with four copperplate engravings by Charles Guyot.
Handsome copy.
Important autograph inscription signed by Henri de Montherlant to the woman of letters and philosopher Alice Poirier: "A Alice Poirier, qui trouvera ici Khosröes et de ses compagnons, sympathique souvenir de Montherlant." (To Alice Poirier, who will find here Khosroes and his companions, kind regards from Montherlant.)
Fervent admirer and lover of Henri de Montherlant whom she nicknamed her "dear Rilet," Alice Poirier maintained, from 1927 to 1950, an important correspondence with the writer, letters to which the latter did not always respond but which he kept to nourish his work.
Thus, Alice Poirier served as model for the two principal female figures, Andrée Hacquebaut and Solange Dandillot, of the tetralogy cycle of "Jeunes filles."
Brilliant doctor of philosophy, she was equally close to Pierre Drieu la Rochelle and Jean Paulhan and drew from her epistolary correspondence with her great love, in 1955, a largely autobiographical novel entitled Récit de Grete in which Henri de Montherlant appeared under the character of Michel Cabrol.

First edition, one of 250 numbered copies marked "subscriber's copy", the only deluxe copies.
Spine lightened, otherwise handsome copy.
Autograph inscription signed by Jacques Vergès to Anne-Marie Lecointre: "... ce livre saisi..."

First edition of which there were no deluxe copies, a Service de Presse (advance) copy.
Precious autograph inscription signed by Bruce Lowery to Joseph Breitbach.

First edition, one of 45 numbered copies on pur fil, the only deluxe copies after 20 Holland.
Full red sheep binding, spine slightly faded with five raised bands set with black fillets, gilt date at foot, marbled endpapers and pastedowns, top edge gilt, covers and spine preserved, slipcase edged with red sheep, red paper boards.
The "n" in the word "bien" in the autograph inscription having been trimmed by the binder.
Amusing autograph inscription signed by René Etiemble: "Pour Joseph Breitbach, en très bon souvenir, ce (ou ces) poètes ou faiseurs et en souhaitant de le voir déserter bien Münich. Etiemble." ("For Joseph Breitbach, with very fond memories, this (or these) poets or makers and hoping to see him desert Munich well. Etiemble.")

First edition, one of 45 numbered copies on pure thread paper, the only deluxe copies after 20 on Holland paper.
Full red sheep binding, spine slightly faded with five raised bands set with black fillets, gilt date at foot, marbled endpapers and pastedowns, top edge gilt, original wrappers and spine preserved, slipcase edged in red sheep, red pasteboard covers.
Some scratches to spine.
Amusing autograph inscription signed by René Etiemble: "Pour Joseph Breitbach, vraiment qu'il souscrive des grands papiers de c'est le bouquet ! En fidèle et cordial souvenir. Etiemble." (For Joseph Breitbach, truly that he subscribes to deluxe copies is the ultimate! In faithful and cordial remembrance. Etiemble.)

First edition, a service de presse (advance) copy.
Precious autograph inscription signed by Jean-Louis Bory: "Pour Joseph Breitbach qui sait comment plonger dans la nuit des corps et du coeur, avec l'amitié de Jean-Louis Bory." (For Joseph Breitbach who knows how to plunge into the night of bodies and heart, with the friendship of Jean-Louis Bory.)

First edition printed on ordinary paper.
Handsome copy.
Fine autograph inscription dated and signed by Gabriel Matzneff to Jean-Claude Barat, adoptive son and universal legatee of Henri de Montherlant: "Pour vous, cher Jean-Claude, afin de remplacer l'exemplaire oublié dans les wagons-lits, cette histoire où il y a beaucoup de lits, mais peu de wagons... avec ma fidèle amitié. Gabriel le 25 VI 74." (For you, dear Jean-Claude, to replace the copy forgotten in the sleeping cars, this story where there are many beds, but few wagons... with my faithful friendship. Gabriel 25 VI 74.)
An admirer of Henri de Montherlant who committed suicide on September 21, 1972, Gabriel Matzneff scattered, in Rome, with his friend Jean-Claude Barat, the writer's ashes between the stones of the temple of Fortuna Virilis and into the Tiber.

First edition on ordinary paper.
Bradel binding with gilt and moiré decorative paper signed Goy & Vilaine, smooth spine, black morocco title-label, top edge gilt, fragile covers and spine (lined) preserved.
Signed and inscribed by Jean Cocteau: "To my dear friend Marcel Herrand. Jean Cocteau. 1920."
In the first article of Carte blanche (1919), Jean Cocteau praises the young actor Marcel Herrand, then aged twenty-two: "The new spirit is stirring all branches of art. Young actors are putting themselves at the service of modern poetry. Marcel Herrand (who created 'Les Mamelles de Tirésias' and various masked roles in 'Le Dit des jeux du monde') was the first to surprise us with his rhythm, his straight voice and his disdain for effect. Gestures, intentions, bleats, shouts, smiles, the nuances beneath each syllable, the play of timbre, all disappear here to make way for a typographic reading. An inky black. Clean-cut words fall off the page one after the other. The actor does not substitute his emotion for that of the poet. He serves him instead of using himself."
During the 1920s, Cocteau entrusted several roles to the talented Marcel Herrand: first as a phonograph in "Les Mariés de la tour Eiffel" (1921), he won the male lead in 'Roméo et Juliette' (1924) and even played the angel Heurtebise in the first cast of his famous 'Orphée' in 1926.
Moving and early inscription by Jean Cocteau, in homage to one of his favorite actors.

 

First edition, one of 25 numbered copies on Holland paper, the deluxe issue after 10 Japan.
Handsome copy.
Our copy contains all 6 illustrations by Kristians Tonny.
Exceptional bicolored autograph inscription signed by Pierre de Massot to Suzy (Solidor), muse of 1930s Paris and paragon of the "Garçonne": "Pour Suzy adorée, si belle qu'un beau livre n'est plus rien sous ses yeux, ces quelques pages qui n'auraient aucune importance si je ne les lui offrais avec tout mon coeur. Je t'embrasse mille et mille fois fraternellement et tendrement. Pierre. 11.X.32" (For beloved Suzy, so beautiful that a beautiful book is nothing under her eyes, these few pages which would have no importance if I did not offer them to her with all my heart. I embrace you a thousand and a thousand times fraternally and tenderly. Pierre. 11.X.32) with a small drawing of a heart pierced by an arrow.

First edition, one of the numbered copies on bouffant finlandia.
Handsome copy complete with publisher's slip and errata sheet.
Work illustrated with 4 illustrations by André Jean.
Autograph inscription signed by Pierre Mac Orlan to Daniel Morrette: "... le texte de qui était mon projet avant la réalisation du film... il y a quelques différences..." (... the text which was my project before the film's realization... there are some differences...)
Original screenplay by Pierre Mac Orlan, directed by André Zwobada, music by Georges Auric, with, in the principal roles, Serge Regianni (sic) and Renée Faure.

First edition on ordinary paper.
Spine slightly sunned, complete with publisher's wraparound band.
Autograph inscription signed by Eugène Guillevic to Roger Caillois: "A Roger Caillois en amitié admirative (1) Guillevic. (1) pas sûr que ce soit du français correct." ("To Roger Caillois in admiring friendship (1) Guillevic. (1) not sure this is correct French.")

First edition, one of the Service de Presse (advance) copies.
Some light foxing affecting mainly the covers at their margins and the edges.
Autograph inscription signed by Francis Ponge to the graphic designer, typographer, illustrator, layout artist, and writer Robert Massin, known as Massin: "Pour Massin, ce gros pavé - ou plutôt cette mosaïque dont il a si bien su mettre en place et ajuster les éléments, avec la fidèle amitié (admirative) de Francis Ponge." (For Massin, this big paving stone - or rather this mosaic whose elements he knew so well how to place and adjust, with the faithful (admiring) friendship of Francis Ponge.)

Rare first edition of this one-act play in verse dedicated to Marshal Foch and to the glory of French soldiers.
Boards marginally soiled and dusty, handsome interior condition.
Autograph inscription signed by Emile Poiteau to a couple of friends.
The author was himself poisoned by gas at Dompierre in October 1916 during the First World War.

First edition, one of 135 numbered copies on handmade paper, ours being one of 100 containing a signed and unused engraving by Max Papart, the only issue with 10 Chapelle copies.
Work illustrated with 11 original engravings by Max Papart which he signed in pencil.
Manuscript signatures of Jacques Prévert and Max Papart on the justification page.
Autograph inscription signed by Max Papart to Jean-Pierre Chauvency enhanced with an original signed drawing depicting a stylized bird flying toward a sun.
A pale dampstain of no consequence to the heads of the slipcase boards, fine interior condition.

First edition, one of the advance copies.
Autograph inscription signed by René Crevel to Paul Lombard.

First edition, one of the numbered copies on Savoie vellum.
Full red morocco-grained shagreen binding, spine with five raised bands set with black fillets, one scratch on a band, black paper endpapers and pastedowns, triple gilt fillets framing the pastedowns, covers (one tear without loss to margin of second cover) and spine preserved, top edge gilt, binding signed Lavaux.
Discreet scratch marks on the boards, one clear mark from adhesive tape discharge at head of page bearing the autograph inscriptions.
Work illustrated with images by Pierre Monnier alias Pierre-Marie Renet.
Autograph inscription signed by Louis-Ferdinand Céline to Monsieur Josette enhanced with this fine autograph inscription signed by Pierre Monnier: "A Josette pour qui personne ne peut rien et qui peut tout, hommage de l'illustrateur Pierre Monnier (PM Renet)." ("To Josette for whom no one can do anything and who can do everything, homage from the illustrator Pierre Monnier (PM Renet).")

New edition revised by Marcel Allain and presenting the definitive text.
This volume which constitutes the third volume of the complete works contains the following two titles: Un roi prisonnier de Fantômas and Le policier apache.
Publisher's full red cloth binding, smooth spine faded, copy lacking its cellophane wrapper, light foxing to edges.
Rare dated and signed autograph inscription from Marcel Allain to his neighbors Madame and Monsieur Joseph Lourdens.

New edition revised by Marcel Allain and presenting the definitive text.
This volume which constitutes the sixth volume of the complete works contains the following two titles: Le mariage de Fantômas and L'assassin de Lady Beltham.
Publisher's full red cloth binding, smooth spine faded, copy lacking its cellophane wrapper, foxing to edges.
Rare dated and signed autograph inscription from Marcel Allain to his neighbors Madame and Monsieur Joseph Lourdens.

New edition revised by Marcel Allain and presenting the definitive text.
This volume which constitutes the eighth volume of the complete works contains the following two titles: L'évadée de Saint-Lazare and La disparition de Fandor.
Publisher's full red cloth binding, smooth spine faded, copy lacking its cellophane wrapper, light foxing to edges.
Rare autograph inscription dated and signed by Marcel Allain to his neighbors Mrs. and Mr. Joseph Lourdens.

New edition revised by Marcel Allain and presenting the definitive text.
This volume which constitutes the fourth volume of the complete works contains the following two titles: Le pendu de Londres and La fille de Fantômas.
Publisher's full red cloth binding, smooth spine faded, copy lacking its cellophane wrapper.
Rare autograph inscription dated and signed by Marcel Allain to his neighbors Mrs. and Mr. Joseph Lourdens.

First edition, one of 175 numbered copies on pure laid paper, the only deluxe copies.
Handsome copy despite the slightly sunned spine.
Autograph signature of Christiane Rochefort on the half-title page.

First edition illustrated with drawings by André Verdet.
Handsome copy.
Dated autograph inscription signed by André Verdet to a friend named Jacqueline: "Pour Jacqueline du haut de mes galaxies" (For Jacqueline from the heights of my galaxies) with an original drawing depicting Halley's comet.

New edition revised by Marcel Allain and presenting the definitive text.
This volume which constitutes the seventh volume of the complete works comprises the following two titles: La livrée du crime and La mort de Juve.
Publisher's full red cloth binding, smooth spine sunned, copy lacking its cellophane wrapper, light foxing to edges.
Rare autograph inscription dated and signed by Marcel Allain to his neighbors Madame and Monsieur Joseph Lourdens.

First edition of which no deluxe copies were printed, a Service de Presse (advance) copy.
Small ink stains to left margin of front cover, otherwise handsome copy retaining its wraparound band: "... et quelques autres fortes têtes..."
Autograph inscription signed by Jean L'Hôte to Pierre Laurent.
A few years later, the work evoking the resistance of the Camisards against the persecutions of Louis XIV's troops was adapted by the author for television with, in the main roles, Jacques Dufilho, Jean Luisi, Bernard Tiphaine.

New edition revised by Marcel Allain and presenting the definitive text.
This volume which constitutes the fifth volume of the complete works comprises the following two titles: Le fiacre de nuit and La main coupée.
Publisher's full red cloth binding, smooth spine faded, complete with its cellophane wrapper affected by small angular lacks, some light foxing.
Rare dated autograph inscription signed by Marcel Allain to his neighbors Madame and Monsieur Joseph Lourdens.

First edition on ordinary paper, false statement of second edition.
A label pasted at the upper left corner of the back cover.
Autograph inscription signed by André Salmon to Madame Wildlocher: "... in memory of a great day of art and poetry in Champagne...

First edition, of which there were no deluxe copies.
Rare and handsome autograph inscription signed by Edward Limonov: "A Anne-Marie Moreau, voilà Limonov à la sadique. Votre E.L."

First edition printed in 1050 numbered copies on roto blanc, ours one of 150 hors commerce copies.
Half-fawn morocco binding, spine with five raised bands decorated with black fillets, marbled paper boards, endpapers and pastedowns, original covers preserved though slightly soiled.
Work illustrated with 7 etchings by André Jacquemin.
Autograph inscription dated and signed by René Benjamin to his friend Marcel Gondard: "... l'ami de coeur pour qu'il me lise simplement... avec son coeur..." ("...the friend of the heart so that he may read me simply... with his heart...")

First edition, one of 894 numbered copies on pur fil, the only deluxe copies after 109 reimposed.
Autograph inscription signed by Henri Deberly to Louis-Daniel Hirsch.
Handsome copy which won the Prix Goncourt in 1926.

First edition printed in 750 numbered copies on Auvergne paper.
Work illustrated with 66 drawings by Henri Charlier.
Handsome copy despite the half-title page and last endpaper partially shaded
Autograph inscription signed by Henri Pourrat to Jean Germe: "... au poète de Liesses et lions et de Simon le Magicien, ces feuilles vertes sans magies mais ressassées sous le pommier d'Auvergne et du Forez avec mon compliment meilleur." (...to the poet of Liesses et lions and of Simon le Magicien, these green leaves without magic but retold under the apple tree of Auvergne and Forez with my best compliments.)

New edition published a few months after the first edition.
Spine very lightly sunned, small stains to fore edge, otherwise handsome copy.
The work won the Prix Goncourt for 1968.
Autograph inscription signed by Bernard Clavel to François Cocaigne.

First edition on ordinary paper.
Copy slightly warped, some light foxing to edges.
Bradel binding in half bottle-green cloth, smooth spine decorated with central gilt fleuron, date and double gilt fillet at foot, fawn shagreen title-label with some small lacks, original wrappers preserved, corners bumped, contemporary binding.
Autograph inscription signed by Gyp to Aurélien Scholl.

First edition on ordinary paper.
Handsome copy.
Bradel binding in full teal cloth, smooth spine decorated with central gilt fleuron, initials, date and double gilt fillet at foot, fawn shagreen title-label, original wrappers preserved, contemporary binding.
Fine autograph inscription signed by Henry Kistemaeckers to the writer Pierre Mortier: "Au spirituel, et délicat, et pénétrant écrivain Pierre Mortier, qui ressuscite au XXème siècle le charme et la "manière des petits maîtres du XVIIIéme" en témoignage de grande amitié littéraire et de grande amitié tout court !" (To the witty, and delicate, and penetrating writer Pierre Mortier, who resurrects in the 20th century the charm and the "manner of the petit maîtres of the 18th" as testimony of great literary friendship and great friendship in general!)

First hors commerce edition printed in a small number of copies reserved for booksellers.
Handsome copy.
Autograph inscription dated and signed by Jean Rouaud to Dominique Faure.

First edition printed on ordinary paper.
Handsome copy.
Dated autograph inscription signed by Pascal Quignard to Alexis Crochet.

New edition published a few months after the first edition.
The work won the Prix Goncourt for 1985 and was adapted for cinema in 1987 by Marion Hänsel with Thierry Frémont in the leading role.
Dated autograph inscription signed by Yann Queffelec to a man named Jacques.

New edition published a few months after the first edition.
Minor stains of no consequence to the front board and fore edge.
This work was awarded the Prix Goncourt in 2001.
Dated autograph inscription signed by Jean-Christophe Rufin: "Pour Micheline de la part de Bruno..."

Reprint.
Autograph inscription signed by Paul Claudel to Monsieur Julien.

First edition, of which there were no deluxe copies.
Handsome copy.
Autograph inscription dated and signed by Jorge Semprun to actor and film producer Pierre-Henri Deleau: "... en souvenir de quelques belles journées sans neige.." ("...in memory of some beautiful days without snow..")

First edition on ordinary paper.
Handsome copy.
Autograph inscription signed by Jorge Semprun to actor and film producer Pierre-Henri Deleau: "... que j'ai connu et apprécié dans les lieux biarrots et bayonnais que j'évoque ici..." ("...whom I knew and appreciated in the places of Biarritz and Bayonne that I evoke here...")

First edition, one of 220 numbered copies on Vosges vellum, ours one of 20 hors commerce copies, the only deluxe copies after 30 on Lana vellum.
Handsome copy despite the spine and boards being lightly sunned, with a tiny marginal tear to the front board.
Very fine autograph inscription signed by Jean-Louis Bory "To Monsieur Buisson to whom this book owes its publication, to Laurence Algan the godmother of 'Mon village' who had the infinite kindness to explore the manuscript and lavished upon the author that encouraging gentleness that beginners seek from their elders in the profession. In testimony of gratitude and respectful admiration. J.L. Bory."

The first edition, of which there were no deluxe copies.
Handsome copy retaining publisher's wraparound band which has left a shadow on the spine.
Autograph inscription signed by Erik Orsenna to Gilbert Marical: "... et vive le Brésil..."

Edition published a few months after the first edition.
Book price in lower right corner of back cover covered with a black felt-tip dot.
Handsome copy complete with its advertising prospectus announcing the signing by Jean Rouaud, winner of the Prix Goncourt, at the Siloë bookstore in Laval.
Dated autograph inscription signed by Jean Rouaud to Madame Maillard.

New edition printed on the occasion of a theatrical adaptation.
Autograph inscription signed by the actress Marcelle Chantal to mademoiselle Pain enhanced with the signatures of Daniel Delorme and Daniel Gélin on the front endpaper.

The first edition, of which there were no deluxe copies.
Handsome copy complete with its illustrated dust jacket.
Autograph inscription signed by Roger Vadim to Madame Molinier: "... une de mes premières lectrices..."

First edition, one of 900 numbered copies on alfa paper.
Handsome copy.
Fine autograph inscription signed by Jacques Laurent to Christian Giudicelli: "... ce livre d'un jeune écrivain pour un jeune écrivain, avec toute ma vive sympathie..." (...this book from a young writer for a young writer, with all my warm sympathy...)

First edition, one of 100 numbered copies on Marais vellum, deluxe copy.
Light pinprick marks of no significance to boards, handsome copy.
Autograph inscription dated and signed by Lo Duca to the screenwriter, film historian and novelist Maurice Bessy.