Fantastic Bindings from Phillip J. Pirages Fine Books and Manuscripts

We conclude with what Pirages describes as "without doubt the finest 20^th century binding we have ever offered for sale." The book is Poemes, by Francis Thompson, published in 1939. Undoubtedly, Thompson's poems are fine, even if he is not well known, but it is the binding that matters here. It was designed by Paul Bonet, and executed by René Desmules. It contains radiating gilt lines on both front and back covers, with a flower design in the center. This hardly describes it, so rather than continuing, click on the image on this page to see for yourself. Item 221. $45,000.

Phillip J. Pirages Fine Books and Manuscripts may be reached at 503-472-0476 or info@pirages.com. Their website is www.pirages.com.