Les Chansons de Bilitis

Paris : Rombaldi , 1937. Leather. Very Good Indeed. 8" by 6" . Lobel Riche . A collection of poems by Pierre Louys, a smart copy of a limited edition featuring erotic illustrations by Lobel Riche. A poetry anthology by Pierre Louys, in the original French. Copy number ninety nine. Limitation is not given. A collection of erotic, lesbian poetry originally published in 1894. Claimed to have been translated from Ancient Greek of a courtesan named Billitis contemporary to Sappho, they are actually clever fabulations by Louys himself, and they are considered important literature. The poems are a blend of mellow sensuality and polished style in the manner of Parnassianism, with subtle Gallic undertones characteristic of the author's writing. Illustrated with five erotic illustrations in colour by Lobel Riche. Rebound in half morocco binding with the original wraps and spine bound in with the volume. Rebound in half morocco binding with gilt to the top edge and decorative endpapers, with the original wraps and spine bound in with the volume. Externally very smart with only minor shelf wear and a touch of edge wear, with minor fading to the spine. Internally, firmly bound. The pages are bright and clean. Illustrated with five erotic illustrations in colour by Lobel Riche. Collated, complete. Very Good Indeed