The Story of Babar: Folio Society Limited Edition

London: Folio Society, 2020. Limited Edition First & Only Printing. Fine Binding. New. 4to - over 9¾ - 12" tall. Brunhoff, Jean de . Delightful Folio Society Limited Edition of 750 copies numbered by hand; this being copy #312. Rarely seen archive material from The Morgan Library and a large-format first edition all reproduced in exquisite facsimile. High quality reproductions of a first edition of 'Histoire de Babar,' 61 sketches and Jean de Brunhoff's original maquette. 'Histoire de Babar' 56 pages printed on Abbey Pure Paper. Sketches and maquette printed on Abbey Lynx Paper. Facsimile volume quarter-bound in cloth with paper sides. Sketches, maquette and limitation certificate presented in a portfolio quarter-bound in cloth with printed paper sides. Commentary 120 pages printed on Abbey Pure Paper. Essays by Faïza Guène, Adam Gopnik and Christine Nelson. Translation of 'Histoire de Babar' by Christine Nelson and Sophie Lewis. Commentary volume quarter-bound in cloth with Plike paper sides. Facsimile, commentary and portfolio housed together in a presentation box quarter-bound in cloth with printed Marcate Nettuno paper sides and secured with green grosgrain ribbon. Presentation box: 14½" x 10½''x 2¼''. To escape the hunter who killed his mother, the young Babar seeks refuge in the city where he meets the benevolent Old Lady and is introduced to a world of tailored suits, fine dining and pampered living. One of the most influential books in the children's canon, 'Histoire de Babar' has all the hallmarks of a classic: anthropomorphic characters; adventures that bridge the familiar and the exotic; and a rewarding and happy ending. However, it is the perfect pairing of endearing narrative and exquisite illustrations that have ensured Babar's longevity and universal appeal. Including reproductions of de Brunhoff's preparatory sketches, his original handmade maquette and a first edition of the book, all presented in a beautiful box with ribbon fastening, the collection is limited to just 750 copies, each numbered by hand on a special printed on green Marcate Nettuno paper. Babar has captured the imagination of generations of readers. Share the magic and nostalgia, the joy of reminiscing and the delight of discovery with this new limited edition. "If you love elephants, you will love Babar . . . And if you have never loved elephants, you will love them now" - A. A. Milne, creator of Winnie the Pooh. In mint condition and original packaging as received directly from The Folio Society. Additional images available on request. 4to - over 9¾ - 12" tall. Heavy/oversize. U.K. postage at default rate but international buyers will be asked for extra. Enquiries welcome. All orders professionally packed, tracked and/or signed for, and fully insured.