Lot of antique military books Funcken weapons soldiers 1939-1945 Empire revolver

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

This lot consists of five illustrated books on military history and the evolution of uniforms and armaments, mainly published by Casterman and the Bibliothèque des Arts. The covers, clearly visible in the photo, all feature detailed color illustrations depicting soldiers, vehicles, and equipment from different eras, from the French Revolution to World War II, as well as a volume dedicated to the 19th-century revolver.

Three volumes are signed by Liliane and Fred Funcken, reference authors in the field of military iconography. Among them are two volumes titled “L’uniforme et les armes des soldats de la guerre 1939-1945” (Casterman), recognizable by their illustrations of uniformed soldiers, tanks, and planes, as well as the explicit mention of the countries concerned (France, Germany, USSR, Poland, etc.). The dust jackets feature meticulously drawn military scenes and unit crests.

A fourth book, also signed by Funcken, deals with “L’uniforme et les armes des soldats du Premier Empire”. Its cover features a group of Napoleonic soldiers in period attire, drum at the head, against a white and turquoise background, with a graphic style characteristic of Casterman editions from the 1970s.

The fifth book, “Le revolver 1865-1888” (Bibliothèque des Arts), has a cover illustrating 19th-century officers, pistol in hand, and silhouettes in civilian and military attire. The entire lot is distinguished by its predominantly white hardcover covers, adorned with precise drawings, period typographic titles, and slight traces of use visible on the corners and edges.

The grouped presentation of these volumes offers a rich panorama of military illustration, from the First Empire to World War II, including emblematic 19th-century weapons. The titles and authors are clearly printed on each cover, guaranteeing the authenticity of the editions visible in the photo.

Condition: These books are pre-owned and show visible signs of use, such as blunted corners, rubbing marks, and small smudges on the covers. The spines and bindings appear intact on the visible side, with no apparent tears. The set is sold as is.

Did you know? Liliane and Fred Funcken are renowned for having profoundly renewed the iconography of military uniforms starting in the 1960s. Their works, translated into several languages, are used as visual references by historians and model makers for the precision of detail in military uniforms, equipment, and insignia.

Professional Reassurance: Careful packaging and fast shipping from France. Professional seller specializing in antique and thematic books.

Keywords: military books, Funcken works, soldier uniforms, military history, antique weapons, Casterman books, military costume, armament encyclopedia, war illustration book, revolver book, Empire soldier books, military books