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GILBERT DE VOISINS (Auguste). L'Esprit impur. Novel.
See original version (French)
GILBERT DE VOISINS (Auguste). L'Esprit impur. Novel.
See original version (French)
Lot no. 101
GILBERT DE VOISINS (Auguste).
L'Esprit impur. Novel.
Paris: Georges Crès et Cie, 1919. - In-16, 182 x 120: (2 ff. first blank), 324 pp. (5 ff. last 3 blank), printed cover. Garnet half-maroquin with corners, gilt fillets, spine with central block of 5 nerves with 4 bands of grey leather interspersed, front pastedown, untrimmed, cover preserved (modern binding).
First edition.
L'Esprit impur is a psychological novel rooted in the XIXᵉ century, in which Auguste Gilbert de Voisins explores the depths of the human soul and the mores of a society in the throes of change. Through rich, analytical prose, the author dissects the inner conflicts of his characters, torn between their passions and social constraints, while questioning themes of morality, corruption and the human condition.
Part of the naturalist movement, this novel is distinguished by its elegant style and keen observation of behaviour, offering a subtle reflection on the tensions of an era when traditional norms clash with individual desires.
A precious copy by the writer and ethnologist Victor Segalen (1878-1919), one of 30 numbered on Arches laid paper (no. 20), the only large paper, enriched by this autograph letter from the author on the false title:
to my dear Victor, // this book he must know // a little, I think... and for // cause! // his devoted // Augusto
Gilbert de Voisins was introduced to Victor Segalen by Claude Farrère. He became one of his close friends and travelling companions, accompanying him on two trips to China (1909 and 1914). Thanks to his large fortune, he financed these expeditions, took part in Segalen's archaeological research and shared his literary passions. In 1923, he published Le Souvenir de Victor Segalen in Écrits de Chine, a precious testimony to their friendship and shared adventures.
This copy contains an autograph manuscript by the author, with an autograph dedication: "to Victor this first page of L'Esprit impur begun on 8 November 1913 in Tien-Tsin (51 rue du 14 juillet)". Rue du 14 juillet was located in the city's French concession, near the Haiho River.
This is an early version of the beginning of the novel, with significant variations (one page in-8, on the Morin greaseproof tracing paper that Victor Segalen also frequently used).
Spine slightly faded, small at bottom. Booklets 2 and 3 have been interchanged.
Provenance: Victor Segalen, with autograph letter from the author.
See original version (French)
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