BOISSIERE, Jules (1863-1897). Fumeurs d’Opium. Paris: Editions J. Terquem, 1926.
4to (267 x 204 mm). EXTRA-ILLUSTRATED with an extra suite of 18 hors-texte etchings printed in sanguine, numerous wood-engravings in the text. Full contemporary red levant with several gilt frames, geometric cornerpieces with inlaid brown morocco, French spine with 5 compartments, raised bands, repeating gilt frames and morocco inlays, edges gilt, patterned free endpapers, full morocco doublures with gilt frames and floral devices of yellow morocco inlays, GILT STAMP-SIGNED BY AFFOLTER in 1928 (few small spots of rubbing at bands, else fine); original pictorial wrappers bound in.
FIRST ILLUSTRATED EDITION, LIMITED ISSUE, number 94 of 130 copies with an extra suite of etchings, from a total edition of 152. Boissiere was “one of the first French writers to study with penetration and a finesse of analysis the action of opium on the intelligence and sensibilities of the refined colonial mind” (Talvart & Place). In a handsome Art Deco binding by one of the leading binders working in Paris after the turn of the century (see Duncan & de Bartha, Art Nouveau & Art Deco Bookbinding, p. 16). Talvart & Place 41. A Horowitz high spot.