The third French Republic in orginal drawings
La Republique de 1879.
Oblong 4to. French ms. on paper. 46 pen-and-ink drawings on plates (numbered 1-48; wants 2, 17, and 18); 2 mounted photo prints. Contemp. half calf with giltstamped cover title "Album".
€ 9,500.00
Interesting album containing political caricatures of a high quality, levelled at the state and society of the Third Republic under President Grévy (1879-87). During his term, France underwent strong social and political changes which are immediately reflected in the drawings. Obviously the work of a professional caricaturist, they were probably intended for publication in newspapers and magazines (or may even have been published). Some pictures poke fun at everyday events, others provide a comment on the developments of several months.
Several drawings tipped in; also includes two revised photographs of drawings (a third one is lacking).