NIGNON, Edouard - Lot 431

NIGNON, Edouard *L'Heptaméron des Gourmets, or The Delights of French Cuisine* Paris: Published by the author, 1919. Quarto, paperback, with a cloth-bound cover. Printed in an edition of 150 copies; this one is No. 67, on Imperial Japanese paper printed especially for the Count de la Valette (who was likely the founder of the French Aero Club in 1898 and died in 1932). Half-title and print run justification, unnumbered; dedication; frontispiece; portrait of Nignon; title page; 6 preliminary pages; and 250 pages. Cover very slightly yellowed or soiled, with very minor flaws, including slightly loose stitching. FIRST EDITION of this prestigious book, undoubtedly the finest gastronomic publication of the 20th century. A collection of the most famous recipes of modern French cuisine served during imaginary feasts over the seven days of Cocagne, presented by a writer: Descaves, Henry de Régnier, Tailhade, Apollinaire, Mary, Fleuret, and Godefroy. 620 recipes accompanied by a portrait of the author by J. Patricot and 7 full-page woodcuts based on works by Guillonet and Varenne. Oberlé 276. Very rare.