LESNÉ (Mathurin-Marie) La Reliure, a didactic poem in six songs. Preceded by an analytical idea of this art, followed by historical and critical notes, and a Memorandum submitted to the Société d'Encouragement, as well as to the 1819 Exhibition Jury, concerning means of improvement, suitable for delaying the renewal of bindings. Paris : Lesné, Nepveu, 1820. - In-8, marbled calf, gilt roulette framing the boards, smooth spine decorated throughout, gilt roulette inside, red edges, cover preserved (modern pastiche binding). First edition of the famous poem by bookbinder Mathurin-Marie Lesné (1777-1841). The author's aim in writing this literary work "was to fix, so to speak, mnemonically the fundamental principles of (his) art, (reserving) to develop some secondary principles, only the most essential ones, in notes, which usually cannot be read, but which will satisfy... those who, wishing to have a fuller knowledge of bookbinding, will take the trouble to read them" (pp. 5-6). Beautiful copy in modern pastiche binding, complete with original printed cover. Lesné's autograph signature appears opposite the title. Old penciled notes on the cover and pencil corrections on pages 4 and 59. Light foxing at the beginning of the book.