BALZAC (Honoré de). Béatrix or forced love. Scenes from private life. Paris : Hippolyte Souverain, 1840. - 2 volumes in-8, half red morocco, spine ribbed, gilt head, untrimmed, cover preserved (early 20th century binding). First edition of this novel which forms one of the most beautiful portraits of women in "La Comédie humaine". It is organized around two female figures, Béatrix, the true incarnation of the femme fatale, and Camille Mauprin, inspired by George Sand. Copy dated 1840, complete with covers. Some wear to the spine. Restorations and soiling to the covers, foxing.