LE COSTUME HISTORIQUE, FIRST EDITION, AUGUSTE RACINET. [History of Fashion] 6 volumes. First Edition. Folio (16 x 12.5 inches). Firmin-Didot et Cie (Paris), 1888. 500 plates, 300 chromolithographic and 200 tinted plates (many plates highlighted in gold and/or silver). One of the most elaborate and important costume books ever produced. The works offers a historical survey of costume with emphasis on traditional European dress. Vol. I contains explanatory text; Vols. II-VI each contain 100 color plates, bound interspersed with pages of descriptive text.
Bound in red moroccan leather, with elaborate gilt spines. 6 spine compartments and raised bands.
