R85.00
The Sun King – A beautifully produced 1966 illustrated biography of Louis XIV by celebrated British author Nancy Mitford, presented in striking red cloth boards with gilt decoration and a very good dust jacket.
1 in stock
The Sun King by Nancy Mitford is one of the twentieth century’s most elegant and engaging biographies of Louis XIV, the legendary monarch who transformed France into the cultural and political centre of Europe. Published by Hamish Hamilton in 1966, this lavishly produced hardcover edition combines Mitford’s celebrated literary style with rich historical insight, making it both an authoritative study and a highly collectible volume for admirers of European history, royal biography, and fine book production.
Nancy Mitford brings the court of Versailles vividly to life, exploring the personalities, intrigues, politics, architecture, and extravagance that defined the reign of the “Sun King.” Her writing balances scholarship with wit and readability, which has ensured the enduring popularity of this title among collectors and readers alike. The Sun King includes numerous illustrations and decorative design elements that complement the grandeur of the subject matter.
This particular 1966 third impression is especially attractive, featuring reddish cloth-covered boards and spine with bright gilt decoration and lettering that remain exceptionally fresh and crisp. The dust jacket is still in very good condition overall, although the spine has faded almost entirely to white, leaving the spine text no longer legible. Despite this fading, the front panel remains visually striking and highly displayable.
An increasingly desirable title in attractive condition, The Sun King appeals to collectors of Nancy Mitford works, French royal history, decorative vintage books, and mid-century historical publishing. Ideal for collectors of European monarchy, Versailles-related material, or beautifully produced illustrated biographies.
Condition – Near Fine
1966 third impression hardcover in near fine condition. Reddish cloth boards and spine with gilt work are exceptionally well preserved and appear almost as new. Dust jacket is in very good condition overall, though the spine has faded completely to white with the spine lettering no longer legible. Internally clean, tightly bound, and well preserved.






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