Description :

Charming group of five early 20th-century French illustrated storybooks, published by Librairie Hachette and H. Geffroy, showcasing some of France’s most beloved literary classics and illustrators. The lot includes:

• Fables de La Fontaine – Two editions by Hachette, richly illustrated with whimsical scenes by Benjamin Rabier and Félix Lorioux. One copy bears a personal handwritten gift inscription dated March 23, 1909, adding a touch of provenance and period authenticity.

• Les Épées de France by Job (H. Geffroy, Éditeur, Paris)* – A beautifully illustrated patriotic volume depicting French military and historical figures; printed on heavy stock with vivid chromolithographs.

• Le Petit Poucet (Tom Thumb) – Hachette edition with striking full-color illustrations typical of interwar French children’s books.

• Robinson Crusoe – Adapted French edition (Hachette, 1930) featuring a colorful art deco–style cover and vibrant illustrations of Crusoe and his parrot companion.

Publication Details:

• Publishers: Librairie Hachette (Paris) and H. Geffroy Éditeur

• Dates: circa 1909 – 1930

• Languages: French

• Illustrators include Félix Lorioux, Benjamin Rabier, and Job (Jacques Onfroy de Bréville)

• Formats: Hardcovers, various sizes

Collecting Note:

A delightful set reflecting the golden age of French illustrated publishing between the Belle Époque and interwar years. The combination of Lorioux’s and Rabier’s playful interpretations of La Fontaine’s fables and Job’s patriotic artistry make this lot appealing to collectors of antique European children’s literature and decorative book illustration.

Provenance:
One copy inscribed in French: « Donné à notre chère petite Yvonette le 23 mars 1909 pour son onzième anniversaire » — an evocative dedication typical of early 20th-century French gift books.