LA FONTAINE (Jean de). FABLES CHOISIES, set in verse. Paris, - Lot 99

LA FONTAINE (Jean de). FABLES CHOISIES, set in verse. Paris, Desaint et Saillant, 1755-1759. 4 volumes in folio, porphyry calf, triple gilt fillet on covers, ornate ribbed spine, gilt edges (period binding). An admirable and very famous edition, often imitated, this is a masterpiece of French engraving. The illustration includes a frontispiece specially designed by Oudry and engraved by Cochin, and 275 remarkable full-page engravings based on Oudry's original drawings, retouched by Cochin and etched under his direction by the best artists of the time. A second edition copy, with the name on the banner of the leopard engraving. The portrait of Oudry is present in this copy; it is rare as it was not originally part of the work. Minor scattered stains, minor marginal galling on 10 leaves, some spotting and evenly browned quires. The copy is well preserved in attractive calf bindings. Modern ex libris.