GILBERT DE VOISINS (Auguste) L'Esprit impur. Roman. Paris : Georges Crès et Cie, 1919. - In-16, 182 x 120: (2 ff. first blank), 324 pp. (5 ff. last 3 blank), printed cover. Garnet half-maroquin with corners, gilt fillets, spine with 5-nerve center block with 4 gray leather bands interspersed, cased head, untrimmed, cover preserved (modern binding). Original edition. L'Esprit impur is a psychological novel rooted in the XIXᵉ century, in which Auguste Gilbert de Voisins explores the depths of the human soul and the mores of a changing society. Through rich, analytical prose, the author dissects the inner conflicts of his characters, torn between their passions and social constraints, while interrogating themes of morality, corruption and the human condition. Inscribed to the naturalist movement, this novel is distinguished by its elegant style and keen observation of behavior, offering a subtle reflection on the tensions of an age when traditional norms clash with individual desires. Precious copy by writer and ethnologist Victor Segalen (1878-1919), one of 30 numbered on Arches laid paper (no. 20), the only large paper, enriched with this autograph letter signed by the author on the false title: to my dear Victor, // this book he must know // a little, I think... and for // cause! // his devoted // Augusto Gilbert de Voisins was introduced to Victor Segalen by Claude Farrère. He became a close friend and traveling companion, accompanying him on two trips to China (1909 and 1914). Thanks to his large fortune, he financed these expeditions, took part in Segalen's archaeological research, and shared his literary passions. In 1923, he published Le Souvenir de Victor Segalen in Écrits de Chine, an invaluable testimony to their friendship and shared adventures. Enriched copy of an autograph manuscript by the author, with autograph dedication: "to Victor this first page of L'Esprit impur begun on November 8, 1913 in Tien-Tsin (51 rue du 14 juillet)." Rue du 14 juillet was located in the city's French Concession, near the Haiho River. This is an early version of the beginning of this novel, with significant variants (one page in-8, on Morin sulfurized tracing paper also frequently used by Victor Segalen). Slightly faded back, small at bottom. Covers 2 and 3 have been interchanged. Provenance: Victor Segalen, with autograph dispatch from the author.