*TAINE (Hippolyte). Essay on the fables of La Fontaine. Thesis for the doctorate in letters presented to the faculty of Paris. Paris : Librairie de Mme Ve Joubert, 1853. - In-8, dark green morocco, double cold fillet on the boards, ribbed spine decorated with cold fillets, inner gilt lace, gilt edges on witnesses, cover preserved (David). Rare first edition of the doctoral thesis of the philosopher, historian and writer Hippolyte Taine (1828-1893). Superb copy bound by David, from the prestigious library of Raphaël Esmérian, enriched with a L.A.S. from the author, one page in-8. He recommends to his correspondent M. Barbé who wishes to fill the function of translator. Rubbing of use to the hinges. Provenance: Raphaël Esmérian, with bookplate (cat. IV, 11 December 1973, n° 118). ATTENTION: this lot is subject to an additional 5.5% tax on temporary importation.