DROLES DE BETES by HELLE, ANDRE

Paris: Tolmer, [1911]. First edition.. Large format, illustrated boards. 31.5 x 42 cm. Patterned end papers. With 20 pochoir plates (19 are mounted; one is executed directly on the page). This copy has suffered the indignity of having the spine and inner hinges taped, and the removal of the tape has left residue and damage from the glue. A couple of pages have been loose, and consequently are worn along the outer edge. The original spine is lacking, but the book is still intact, the covers attached. The front fly leaf and two pages are loose. A couple of plates have small creases where the corners were folded, but in general they are bright and in very nice condition. The first book by Helle, a toy designer, decorator, artist and author known for illustrating the ballets of Claude Debussy. A somewhat rough-around-the-edges copy of a very scarce book.