Code Penal, Commentaires Images de Joseph Hemard, on Japanese Vellum

Paris, [c.1940]. Japan Paper w/orig signed image. One of Only 10 Copies on Imperial Japanese Vellum with an Original Signed Watercolor Hemard, Joseph [1880-1961]. Code Penal: Commentaires Images de Joseph Hemard. Paris: Editions Litteraires de France, [c. 1940]. 169 pp. Pochoir color text illustrations. This copy with an additional signed original color image. Original publisher pictorial stiff wrappers bound into contemporary three-quarter morocco over elegant marbled boards, raised bands and gilt title to spine, gilt rules to boards, top-edge gilt, untrimmed fore and bottom edges, thick marbled endpapers. Light scuffing to spine, light toning to interior, vivid illustrations. A very good copy. $2,500. * Number 4 from an edition limited to 10 copies printed on luxurious Papier Imperial Japon Nacre (Japanese vellum). This copy is distinguished by the inclusion of an original signed watercolor by the artist, Joseph Hemard, specifically relating to the text. Joseph Hemard (1880-1961) was a prolific French illustrator celebrated for transforming dry, "sober" texts-including the French Civil Code and tax laws-into whimsical works of art. Richly illustrated throughout with witty, satirical, and occasionally risque color pochoir (stencil) illustrations. These vibrant images provide a humorous counterpoint to the official text of the French Penal Code. Of the 910 total copies produced, only the first 10 (and select hors commerce copies) were printed on Japan paper, making this among the most desirable copies in existence.…