Library of Fine Arts: Connoisseur Edition [Three-Volume Set] English Earthenware; French Porcelain; Old French Faïence [1903-1905]

Burton, William (1863-1941); Auscher, E. S.; Solon, M. L.

Published by Cassell and Company, Limited / La Belle Sauvage Press, London, 1905

A masterpiece of Edwardian luxury art publishing, this 'Connoisseur Edition' represents the most prestigious state of Cassell's authoritative ceramic histories. Bound by the La Belle Sauvage Bindery in full scarlet morocco with elaborate gilt-tooled urn motifs and green morocco doublures, the set was designed specifically for the high-end private library. The text-printed from distributed type to ensure the limitation-covers the essential development of English stoneware, the delicacy of Sèvres and Vincennes porcelain, and the rustic artistry of French faïence. Each volume is a scholarly cornerstone, enhanced by vibrant color plates and meticulous reproductions of factory marks. KEY FEATURES +++ Limitation: Copy No. [XX] of only 250 sets; printed from distributed type. +++ Signatures: Each volume pencil-signed on the limitation page by the respective author or editor. +++ Binding: Full red morocco with four raised bands; dense gilt-paneling to spines and boards; green gilt-morocco doublures; watered silk free endpapers. +++ Visuals: Profusely illustrated with color plates (many tissue-guarded) and comprehensive tables of pottery marks. +++ Imprint: Printed at La Belle Sauvage Press, London; high-specification Edwardian typography. CONDITION: Very Good -- The bindings are tight and square. Internally clean with light, even age-toning. The exterior displays moderate shelf handling wear, including rubs along the joints and corners typical of heavy morocco of this period. The gilt remains bright, and the silk endpapers are exceptionally well-preserved. HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE - William Burton, a former chemist for Josiah Wedgwood & Sons, brought a scientific rigor to ceramic history that was previously lacking. This set represents the era's Gold Standard of connoisseurship, where the history of an object was as valued as the object itself. The La Belle Sauvage Press used the distributed type method as a marketing guarantee of exclusivity, signaling to the Edwardian elite that these specific impressions would never be replicated. The presence of M.L. Solon-the legendary pâte-sur-pâte artist from Minton-as an author adds significant weight for ceramic specialists. SUBJECTS: Ceramics & Pottery, Art History, English Stoneware, Sèvres Porcelain, French Faïence, Edwardian Fine Binding, Fine Press, Limited Editions, Art Reference, Presentation Bindings. Seller Inventory # 21647

Bibliographic Details

Title: Library of Fine Arts: Connoisseur Edition [...
Publisher: Cassell and Company, Limited / La Belle Sauvage Press, London
Publication Date: 1905
Condition: Very Good
Dust Jacket Condition: No Dust Jacket, As Issued