GUÉRIN (Charles). Le Cœur Solitaire. - Lot 103

GUÉRIN (Charles). Le Cœur Solitaire. An exceptional copy on japon, one of the 3 first editions, in a very attractive art nouveau binding. Most probably the author's copy (see provenance). Paris, Mercure de France, 1898. In-folio (32 × 19 cm), half taupe morocco with corners, smooth spine decorated with a mosaic floral motif in the taste of art nouveau, covers and spine preserved (Canape). Good interior, untrimmed, spotting. First edition. One of the first 3 numbered copies on old Japon à la cuve, the first edition. Charles Guérin was a French poet of the late 19th century, who died at the age of 33. On the edge of Symbolism and Parnassus, his OEuvre, consisting of 8 published volumes (a very short career), is in the purest lyrical tradition. He was a great friend of Francis Jammes. We reproduce below sonnet no. VI: "Aime: la bouche aimée est savoureuse et chaude, And the amphora of the loins ripens the gold of the sun; But know that honey drawn delivers to sleep The ketony, emerald lover of roses. Glory smiles on you like a wrinkled grandmother: Stay obscure. Pass quickly to the philosophers Who polish the shimmering fabric of ideas As merchants shimmer their fabrics. The gods are paternal to the pious mortal: pray That author of thy house the trees may bend Under the fruits, that your beehive increases its rumour. Wait for death like a friend, and let your heart Be to thee a calm inward heaven The ever-equal light of the stars." [March 10, 1898] A magnificent copy printed on japon paper and bound in full leaves, untrimmed except for the head edge, which has been gilded (old-timers, maniacs of margins, would have said: "fusillé en tête!"). The title on the cover is printed in gold, followed by two additional states of the title page. Remarkable. Provenance: Charles Guérin (by descent).