Renard, Jules

Histoires naturelles.  Paris: H. Floury, 1899



Small folio (12 5/8 x 9 in.; 321 x 228 mm, uncut). 22 lithographs hors texte by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec; minimal dust-soiling at edges of a few leaves.  Publisher's wrappers with lithograph in black by Lautrec; some soiling to covers, minor wear at head of spine, inner hinge starting.

Artist & the Book 304; Castleman, Century 118; Ray, French 382

Small folio (12 5/8 x 9 in.; 321 x 228 mm, uncut). 22 lithographs hors texte by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec; minimal dust-soiling at edges of a few leaves. Publisher's wrappers with lithograph in black by Lautrec; some soiling to covers, minor wear at head of spine, inner hinge starting.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Copy 47 of 100 numbered copies of "one of the great rarities of the late 19th century" (Artist & the Book).  Although the Lautrec/Renard Histoires naturelles is today one of the most celebrated and sought-after of all livres d'artiste, it was received poorly when it was issued and did not sell out until 1917.  Lautrec began his preliminary sketches in 1896 and the lithographs were executed late in 1898.  Publication was delayed by the author, who was not pleased with the illustrations, which did not in every instance illustrate the text.