Vintage paperback book San-Antonio Devil Express vintage crime novel Fleuve Noir retro

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This paperback features a detective novel titled Devil Express, written by the famous Commissioner San-Antonio. The cover showcases an illustration typical of popular French editions from the mid-20th century, composed of a male portrait in pastel shades, a character dressed in a yellow suit, and a pair of handcuffs drawn in the foreground. The dominant colors are navy blue, yellow, and the vivid red of the title, offering a characteristic retro aesthetic.

On the lower part of the cover, the inscription Commissaire SAN-ANTONIO is clearly visible in white letters on a red band, as well as the mention of the publishing house Fleuve Noir. The illustration bears the signature of the artist “M. Gourdon,” recognizable by his graphic style and dynamic composition, typical of French detective novels from the 50s-70s.

The book shows visible wear on the spine and edges of the cover, with marked creases at the bottom and some scuff marks, testifying to its age and handling over time. No other details of the back or interior are visible in the photograph.

The format is that of a classic paperback, easily identifiable by the proportion between height and width and the flexibility of the cover. The graphics, the use of bold colors, and the lettering of the title "DEVIL EXPRESS" in vivid red directly evoke the vintage style of detective novels published in France between the 1950s and 1970s.

The visual composition highlights the world of detective fiction, with emblematic elements of the genre: handcuffs, determined-looking characters, and a nocturnal atmosphere. This type of Fleuve Noir edition is sought after for its retro aesthetic and its importance in the history of French detective novels.

Condition

The book is second-hand and shows visible signs of wear on the cover (creases, scratches, scuffed corners). It is sold as is, as shown in the photo.

Did you know? San-Antonio is the pseudonym of the writer Frédéric Dard, author of over 170 detective novels published mainly by Fleuve Noir. The covers illustrated by Michel Gourdon, including the one presented here, have become emblematic of French detective fiction and are highly appreciated for their unique graphic style.

AFW Reassurance

Fast shipping and careful packaging. Professional seller specializing in antique and vintage books.

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