Complete Set of Histoire de Gil Blas de Santillane
By Alain-René Lesage
Paris, Imprimerie de Didot Jeune
1794–1795

A beautifully preserved and complete late 18th century French edition of Gil Blas, printed in Paris by the renowned Didot Jeune press, one of the most respected names in French Enlightenment-era publishing.

Produced during the final years of the 18th century, this edition reflects the refinement and precision that defined the Didot workshops. The typography is clean and balanced, printed on quality laid paper with generous margins, embodying the ideals of clarity and elegance that characterized French printing of the period.

The set is illustrated throughout with finely executed copperplate engravings, each signed in the plate and depicting key narrative scenes from Lesage’s celebrated novel. These are original to the edition and not later additions, enhancing both the literary and visual appeal of the work.

All volumes are uniformly bound in rich red leather with gilt-tooled spines, displaying consistent decorative motifs across the set. The bindings create a striking and cohesive presence, whether shelved in a library or displayed as a collection.

This is a true Enlightenment-era literary object — not just a text, but a complete artistic production combining narrative, illustration, and craftsmanship.

Condition
Very good antique condition for age
Bindings remain intact with light wear and rubbing
Gilt tooling still visible and attractive
Interiors generally clean with expected age toning
Engravings well preserved and clearly struck

A cornerstone work of French literature presented in one of its most desirable 18th century forms.