Complete Works Voltaire 12 volumes black gilt leather 1838 Pantheon Littérai binding

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This lot consists of twelve volumes of Voltaire's complete works, presented side-by-side in the image, with their spines visible. Each volume is inscribed with "VOLTAIRE" in gold letters on a black background, along with a number from 1 to 12, also in gold. The spines are adorned with decorative gold motifs and horizontal fillets, lending the set a refined and classic aesthetic, typical of meticulously crafted 19th-century editions.

The binding features a black leather appearance (material confirmed by the keywords), enriched with decorative gilding. At the bottom of the spines, the mention "PANTHÉON LITTÉRAIRE" is visible, indicating the publishing house and collection. The volumes are aligned on a wooden shelf, highlighting the coherence of the series and the regularity of the embellishments.

Each volume displays golden decoration composed of stylized geometric and floral motifs, recurring on all spines, and diagonal gold bands highlight the top and bottom of each work. The set is characterized by visual harmony, ideal for a classic library or period decor.

The binding style, typography, and arrangement of the gilded elements indicate 19th-century bookbinding, consistent with the 1838 date mentioned in the keywords. The contrast between the deep black of the leather and the gilding emphasizes the prestigious character of this edition.

The edges of the books are not visible in the photo; only the faces of the spines are presented. Number 13 also appears, but the advertised lot includes 12 volumes according to the keywords. No major defects are visible on the spines, other than a slight patina and some discreet signs of wear, indicating moderate use.

Condition

Used items sold as is. The spines show a beautiful patina, slight signs of use, and some rubbing marks, typical of old leather books. The set remains visually very uniform and decorative.

Did you know? Voltaire's complete works were often published in the 19th century in prestigious collections, including the "Panthéon Littéraire," a Parisian publishing house renowned for its luxury editions with leather bindings and gilding, intended for an educated clientele and display libraries.

AFW Reassurance

Careful packaging and fast shipping are guaranteed by a professional seller specializing in antique books and prestigious editions.

Keywords: complete works Voltaire, leather-bound books, Pantheon Littéraire, 1838 edition, gilded volumes, Voltaire collection, black and gold binding, 12 volume set, classic French books, leatherbound Voltaire, 19th-century French literature, decorative library