ZOLA, Emile. Renee. Piece En Cinq Actes. (1898 - FIRST EDITION - PRESENTATION COPY TO SANTAEN KOLFF)

AUTHOR: ZOLA, Emile.

TITLE: Renee. Piece En Cinq Actes.

PUBLISHER: Paris: G. Charpentier Et Cie Editeurs, 1887.

DESCRIPTION: FIRST EDITION PRESENTATION COPY. 1 vol., 7-3/16" x 5-3/16", inscribed by the author on half title, "a’ Van Santen Kolff Sou divour’ confrire Emile Zola,", bound in 1/4 maroon calf, raised bands, gilt lettered spine, bookplate of Ernst Magnus (1873-1942) to front pastedown, housed in a green morocco backed slipcase, raised bands, gilt lettered spine.

CONDITION: Slight toning to pages, front hinge cracked but firm, rear hinge rubbed, head and foot of spine rubbed with loss, a scarce title inscribed.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: According to RBH no inscribed copy of this title has never appeared at auction.

Jacques van Santen Kolff and Emile Zola shared a notable correspondence and a close intellectual relationship as writer and admirer from 1878 to 1894. Van Santen Kolff was a Dutch art and literature critic who became a dedicated admirer and prospective biographer of the French novelist. Zola wrote dozens of letters and cards to Van Santen Kolff over a 16-year period in response to his persistent, detailed questioning. Zola's letters to Van Santen Kolff offered deep insight into his creative process, explaining the philosophical concepts, themes, character origins, and hidden meanings behind his Rougon-Macquart novels. The letters sent by Zola to Van Santen Kolff were later compiled and published, serving as an important resource for literary scholars studying Zola's work.