MAUPASSANT (Guy de) and LELOIR (Maurice). Une Vie. New editi - Lot 218

MAUPASSANT (Guy de) and LELOIR (Maurice). Une Vie. New edition illustrated with 38 compositions by Maurice Leloir. An exceptional copy of the first edition, including two additional states of the etchings, in a splendid binding by Charles Meunier, adorned with two beautiful embossed leather plates, typical of the work of the bookbinder considered the apostle of "emblematic" bookbinding. Paris, L. Carteret, 1920. Large in-8 (200x280mm), eggplant grosgrain morocco, 4 ribbed spine underlined and framed with cold filets extending over the boards, embossed leather plates inlaid in the center of the boards and signed in the leather "Ch. Meunier, 21", the first, predominantly ochre, showing Jeanne's profile in a medallion framed by iris flowers, the second, colored, showing a cupid in a medallion in a leafy chestnut decor, gilt edges, turquoise morocco lining adorned with a large floral garland mosaic of dyed and stamped morocco and calf, The cover and spine are preserved. Half-maroquin band folder and matching slipcase. Binding signed Charles Meunier, dated 1921. 310 pages, 38 black compositions in the text by Maurice LELOIR, engraved with burin and etching by Léon BOISSON, ornate woodcut lettering. Text printed in a double black frame, title printed in black and red. Slight rubbing to spine and spine ends. Beautiful edition of Maupassant's great novel, decorated by Maurice Leloir (1853-1940) with 38 black compositions in the text, engraved with burin and etching by Léon Boisson, as well as several woodcut initials. Limited edition of 300 numbered copies, this one of 80 choice copies on Vélin du marais, bearing N°22, including, unjustified, two additional states of the etchings, including the pure etching. A copy in perfect condition, remarkably produced by Charles Meunier (1865-1948), an important bookbinder of the Belle Époque.