RUDAUX (Edmond). ZOLA (Émile). Nouveaux contes à Ninon. Orig - Lot 272

RUDAUX (Edmond). ZOLA (Émile). Nouveaux contes à Ninon. Original sketches and proofs of 31 compositions by Ed. Rudaux. Precious bibliophilic set of 27 preparatory sketches and 120 re-imposed proofs, enabling us to follow Edmond Rudaux's creative process step by step, from sketch to final image. Paris, Conquet, 1886. Small folio (370 x 293 mm), Bradel-style in navy blue half-maroquin with corners, smooth spine, author and title in gilt lettering. Copy entirely untrimmed. 2ff, 27 plates of sketches, 120 plates of engravings, 17 plates of letters and documents. Unique copy by the publisher and great bibliophile Léon Conquet, containing : - 27 original sketches executed in graphite on paper of various sizes, some with notes on the recto or verso. - 120 state proofs reprinted in quarto format. - Important correspondence of 42 autograph letters signed by the artist Edmond Rudaux (1840-1908), addressed to Léon Conquet, concerning the illustration of the work. - Four documents concerning the book's production, including invoices and estimates from printers and type founders. Provenance: from the library of André Barrier (Paris 1870 - 1957), with etched bookplate. President of the Court of Appeal and great bibliophile, president of the Cent Bibliophiles. On the front flyleaf, also the etched bookplate of Jean Barrier. A superb copy of this unique work.