Boccace (Giovanni)

Boccace (Giovanni). The Decameron by Master Jean Boccace Florentine, translated from Italian into French by Master Antoine le Maçon, Counselor to the King, & Treasurer of the Extraordinary for his wars. Paris, for Claude Gautier, 1572; from the Olivier de Harsy printing office. Small 12mo of about 12 × 8 cm. [40] preliminary leaves, 628 numbered pages. Paris edition of the famous translation by Antoine Le Maçon, the first edition of which appeared in 1545; this translation, made directly from the Italian, enjoyed considerable success in the 16th century. Illustrated edition with 10 wood-engravings, placed at the head of the ten days. Brunet already noted these small editions as sought after. The collation of 628 leaves, observed on this copy, corresponds well to that recorded for the 1572 edition. Copy in old red morocco, probably 18th century, covers adorned with an elegant gilded border with repeated motifs, richly gilt back, edges gilded. Decorative binding but with marked wear to the back and hinges, rubbed heads and joints, with some superficial leather losses. The interior is generally well preserved in light of the photographs, paper slightly browned in places, a few small stains and signs of use. Missing the second guard. Binding in need of restoration. Bibliophilic interest: a pretty 16th-century edition, in a handy format and prized for its wood engravings, here preserved in an attractive old red morocco binding

Estimate:£931.94

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