Propser Merimee; A. E. Johnson [trans.] — Carmen

London, Hutchinson & Co, 1916. First edition. Hardback. A limited edition work, signed by the illustrator, this is a wonderful and scarce first edition of Rene Bull's illustrated edition of Prosper Merimee's 'Carmen&apos. With colour plates. A scarce signed limited edition work, the first edition of this work to be translated into English by A. E. Johnson and to be illustrated by Rene Bull. No. 66 of 100 limited edition copies, signed by the illustrator. Illustrated with a colour frontispiece and fifteen fine colour plates, each with descriptive tissue guard, together with seventy-four black and white illustrations in the text.  Collated, complete. 1919 inscription to a front blank. A beautifully illustrated edition of Mérimée's 'Carmen', the novella that inspired Georges Bizet's opera. In the publisher's original paper vellum with gilt detailing. Significant handling marks to binding, with is age toned. Shelf wear to back strip tail. Front hinge strained but firmly held. Inscription to a front blank. Internally, firmly bound. Pages bright and generally clean, with the odd light handling mark or spot. Significant loss to one tissue guard. Very Good . Ill.: Rene Bull. Very Good .