Rare Collection 18th Century Full Leather Bound Antique Books Works of Jean-Pierre Claris De Florian French Collector's Set

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An extraordinary and rare opportunity to acquire an 18th-century collection of Jean-Pierre Claris de Florian’s works, presented in near-mint condition. … Read more An extraordinary and rare opportunity to acquire an 18th-century collection of Jean-Pierre Claris de Florian’s works, presented in near-mint condition. This exquisite 17-volume set (published during the late 1700s) embodies the timeless elegance of French literary heritage. Florian (1755–1794), a celebrated poet, novelist, and fabulist, was admired in his era for his graceful prose and moral tales, qualities that secured his place among the most distinguished French writers of the Enlightenment.

His works include pastoral romances, such as Estelle and Galatée, which blended sentimentality with classical themes, and historical novels, including Gonzalve de Cordoue, inspired by Spanish history. However, he is best remembered for his fables (Fables, 1792), written in a concise, graceful style that made them popular as moral instruction for both children and adults. Many of his lines became proverbial in French, echoing La Fontaine’s influence while offering a lighter, more accessible touch. Though his career was cut short by the upheavals of the French Revolution, he died imprisoned during the Reign of Terror, Florian’s books enjoyed enduring popularity in the 19th century, cherished for their charm, wit, and moral clarity.

This set includes the following titles:
Les Six Nouvelles (1784)
Galatee, Roman Pastoral (1785)
Numa Pompilius Vol. 1 and 2 (1786)
Theatre Vol. 1, 2, 3 (1786)
Estelle, Roman Pastoral (1787)
Melanges de Poesie et de Literature (1787)
Fables (1792)
Nouvelles (1792)
Gonzalve De Cordue, Ou Grenade Reconquise Vol. 1, 2, 3 (1792)
Nouveaux Melanges de Poesieet De Litterature (1806)
Eliezer Et Nephtaly (Undated)
Oeuvres Posthumes de Florian (Undated)

Each miniature travel-sized volume, measuring approximately 5" high, 3" deep, and 0.75" wide is bound in rich deep green full leather with ornate gilt patterns and borders to the spine and covers. The all-edge gold gilding remains astonishingly bright and crisp, as though finished yesterday. Inside, finely detailed woodcut engravings enhance the text with artistry and charm, offering visual delight alongside literary treasures.

Remarkably well preserved for books over two centuries old, these volumes show minimal signs of handling. Adding to their uniqueness, a custom set of 19th-century protective dust covers was specially crafted from sturdy board and finished in vibrant marbled paper, ensuring their longevity. This thoughtful addition not only reflects the extraordinary care given by past owners but also enhances their presentation for the discerning collector. The books are in very fine condition. There is some wear to the dust covers. Please review the photos for further condition assessment.

A rare fusion of literary significance, fine craftsmanship, and historical provenance, this set would make a distinguished centerpiece for any serious rare book collection or an exceptional gift for the connoisseur of French literature. See less