La Machinerie Theatrale: Trucs et Decors: Explication Raisonne Des Tous Les Moyens Employes Pour Produire Les Illusions Theatrales

Paris, France: La Librairie Illustree, 1880. Classic text- "Tricks and Decorations" by renown author-historian Georges Moynet, presents a detailed study of the theatrical technology of the late nineteenth century, including various stage mechanicals, optical-illusion apparatuses; theater props; lighting and special effects; architectural and decorative construction; various theatrical machinery; applications of vapor, electricity and hydraulics; theatrical tricks and decorative effects; joinery and ironwork; costumes and decoratiive design; theatrical curiosities; theater improvements; etc. 408 pp. Illustrated with 31 engravings and 100 labels intercalated in the text according to the drawings from the author. Color frontispiece of Loie Fuller in La Danse Serpentine. Rebound in a premium black library binding with gilt leather title label- pastedown on upper spine. Small prior owner's label removal mark on lower spine. Marbled endpapers. Small closed tear on the upper hinge of front cover; pp.75-76 has a paperclip indentation on the upper margin; preface page taped and repaired near the spine; pp.81-82 and 331 has a tiny chunk missing at the spine seam; small stamp on lower margin of p.33. Roughly two dozen random pages have been repaired as needed; a few isolated pages may have tiny closed edge tears which does not affect the text. Overall in very good condition for its age. No copyright date, circa 1880's. Presumed First Edition. Signed and inscribed by Georges Moynet to Monsieur H. Pessard on half-title page. Text in French. Scarce.. Signed by Author. First Edition. Hard Cover. Very Good. 8vo - over 7¾" - 9¾" tall. Ex-Professional Library.