FINELY BOUND 32-VOLUME FOLIO SET OF THE BEAUTIFULLY ILLUSTRATED TURN-OF-THE-CENTURY PARISIAN THEATRE MAGAZINE LE THÉATRE

BOUSSOD, Jean, et al., editors. Le Théatre. Paris: No publisher, 1898-1921. Thirty-two volumes. Folio (11-1/2 by 14-1/2 inches), contemporary three-quarter brown morocco gilt, raised bands, marbled boards and endpapers, top edges gilt. $5500.

Complete 24-year run of this Parisian bimonthly illustrated theater magazine, reporting in lengthy articles on all of the most popular and avant-garde plays and actors of the era, accompanied by rich color and photographic illustrations, in 32 folio volumes handsomely bound in three-quarter morocco-gilt. Text in French.

The French periodical Le Théatre set out to faithfully record the dynamic changes taking place in Parisian theater at the turn of the century. In photographic images and color illustrations highlighted by literate text, it chronicled all aspects of theater from the most beautiful actresses to the most daring plays. The illustrations depicted actors in full costume, elaborate stage sets, and actors staging full scenes from productions. The covers were often illustrated in beautiful art nouveau style. Published bimonthly, the magazine experienced only one break in the 24-year run bound in this collection: from September 1914 to September 1919—for World War I—after which it recommenced publishing, including images of the troops watching a play on the Front and printing an actress dressed as La Victoire on the cover.

Interiors generally fine, expert restoration to one board and joints on a few volumes. A beautiful set in about-fine condition.