Alphabet Gothique Par Midolle -

N.p., 1845. Midolle, Jean. Octavo. (26)ff. A manuscript alphabet book of calligraphic paintings, signed by the artist, Jean Midolle. Includes an elaborately decorated title page, twenty-four letters, and "Fin." A renowned nineteenth-century Swiss calligrapher and miniature-painter, Midolle executed his alphabets in the gothic style of lettering to resemble the text of a medieval manuscript, and often heavily decorated his work. A leading figure in the field of chromolithography, Midolle also hand-colored his work in the fashion of the miniature paintings found in fifteenth-century French illuminated books. Entirely hand drawn, Alphabet Gothique is executed in such a style, with each extensively detailed letter rendered in bright colors that have retained their vibrancy to a remarkable degree. Multi-colored flowers, birds, and serpents are prevalent as compositional motifs, intertwined with the letters themselves. Bound in brown morocco with a cover design by noted American collector Cornelius Hauck. The design depicts an oak tree in brown and green morocco onlays. The tree is situated behind three arched and spired portals in gilt that suggest a cathedral. The spine also incorporates portions of the design. Gilt dentelles and silk endpapers complete this handsome binding, which is a fitting complement to the exquisite artwork inside. A.e.g. Fine.