The MFLIBRA Antique Books Blog

Special collaboration: Mélisande O'Leary   Ah, the serendipitous joy of delving into a piece as enchanting as the 1960 Scarce First edition, First printing - Rimbaud by Beat Generation Novelist Jack Kerouac. This gem, nestled within the rich tapestry of literary history, offers a splendid exploration into the soul of one of the Beat Generation's most illustrious figures, shining a light on his profound connection with the symbolist poet Arthur Rimbaud.Imagine, if you will, a time when the vibrant streets of San Francisco buzzed with the creative fervor of the Beat Generation. It was in this milieu that City Lights Books,...

In the realm of literature that celebrates the tranquil art of fishing, few works have resonated through the ages quite like Izaak Walton's "The Compleat Angler, or The Contemplative Man's Recreation." First published in 1653, this timeless classic has not only survived the ebb and flow of literary trends but has also been enshrined in the hearts of bibliophiles and angling enthusiasts alike. The 1931 edition, marvelously illustrated by Arthur Rackham and published by George G. Harrap & Co. Ltd., London, stands as a testament to the enduring charm and appeal of Walton's work.   "The Compleat Angler" is more...

A Timeless Love Story Reimagined  In the enchanting world of antique books, few tales have captured the imagination quite like "Aucassin and Nicolette." This 12th-century "chantefable" (a unique genre combining prose and verse) from France is not only a significant piece of medieval literature but also a timeless love story. At MFLIBRA Antique Books, we have the privilege of showcasing a remarkable edition of this classic: "Of Aucassin and Nicolette: A translation in prose and verse from the old French together with Amabel and Amoris," translated by Laurence Housman with engravings from drawings by Paul Woodroffe. Laurence Housman's Mastery Laurence...

A Timeless Treasure in the World of Antique Books In the realm of antique books, few pieces capture the imagination quite like the 17th-century French Bible translated by Louis-Isaac Lemaistre de Sacy. This remarkable work is not only a testament to religious history but also a marvel of literary achievement. The Man Behind the Translation: Louis-Isaac Lemaistre de Sacy Louis-Isaac Lemaistre de Sacy, a pivotal figure in the Jansenist movement, was a theologian, a linguist, and above all, a masterful translator. His translation of the Bible into French, known as the "Bible de Sacy," was completed while he was imprisoned...

Charles van Sandwyk: A Modern Master with a Nostalgic Brush Canadian artist Charles van Sandwyk is a remarkable figure in contemporary art, renowned for his whimsical and detailed illustrations that transport viewers to a bygone era of magic and natural beauty. His artistic journey is deeply rooted in a love for the works of early illustrators and the natural world. Early Inspirations and Influences Van Sandwyk's artistic inclinations were nurtured from a young age. He found immense inspiration in the works of Beatrix Potter, Albrecht Dürer, Rembrandt, Leonardo da Vinci, and Paul Gauguin. Among these, British illustrator Arthur Rackham held...