signed by the author

A striking set of plates graphically depicting the stages of a traditional bullfight. Particular attention is paid to the anatomical correctness of the bull, alive or dead. A manuscript letter signed by Jean Victor Adam is tipped in.

Jean Victor Adam (1801-1866) was a celebrated artist who started to receive commissions for works from the age of eighteen. This work of his is considered one of the great depictions of the bullfight.

First edition; landscape folio (35 x 48 cm); 12 hand-coloured lithographed plates heightened in gum arabic after Adam, French and Spanish captions, signed letter tipped onto reverse of front free end-paper, a couple of spots to pp. 3 and 4 otherwise clean and bright internally; later half blue morocco, marbled boards with gilt morocco title label to upper board, spine banded in six compartments, boards a little rubbed, otherwise a fine copy.

Palau 2598.