THEURIET (André). Nos Oiseaux. Watercolors by Hector Giacome - Lot 166

THEURIET (André). Nos Oiseaux. Watercolors by Hector Giacomelli. P., Launette, 1886. In-4, olive-green morocco, 5-rib spine with gold thread and foliage decoration, plates decorated with gold foliage with mosaic corner motif representing two birds on a branch, framed with 3 threads, tan morocco lining with wide gilt lace frame, decorated moire endpapers, gilt head, n.r., ill. cover and spine, slipcase (Dupré). ORIGINAL EDITION AND FIRST EDITION of this major work by the artist, illustrated with 110 watercolors in and out of the text, beautifully reproduced in color photogravure. "Giacomelli is the Van Huysum of small birds, expressive, tender and delightful birds that seem to think a lot. The bird is to Giacomelli as the cat is to Lambert. A self-respecting bird can only be by Giacomelli; a bird that is not by Giacomelli is a false bird" (H. Beraldi.). SUPERB AND PRECIOUS EXAMPLE, printed on numbered Marais paper, ENRICHED WITH 22 LARGE ORIGINAL AQUARELLES BY GIACOMELLI, ALL SIGNED, of the utmost beauty and freshness. An autograph letter from the artist to a lady admirer (1 1/2 pages in-8, dated 1891), with a charming original signed watercolor of two birds, has been added. VERY BEAUTIFUL DUPRE BINDING, strictly contemporary with the book, which is entirely mounted on tabs.