Benserade, Ovid's Metamorphoses, 1676, Original Illustrated Edition

Isaac de Benserade, Ovid's Metamorphoses in Rondeaux, Paris, Royal Printing Office, 1676. Large quarto, full contemporary tan calf, spine decorated with five raised bands. First edition commissioned and financed by King Louis XIV, of Benserade's poems after Ovid for the Dauphin Louis. One of the finest illustrated editions of the 17th century. Featuring a frontispiece title page after Le Brun, engraved by Le Clerc, and 226 illustrations in the text: a title vignette with the royal arms, a tailpiece, and 224 vignettes at the beginning of each poem, engraved by Chauveau, Le Clerc, and Le Pautre, some printed on large paper. Binding rubbed, headcap worn, corners bumped, hinge weakened. Interior with dampstaining at the beginning and end of the book on a few pages in the center. Restoration of the title page and two interior leaves. Some scattered foxing. The engravings are in fine condition. A good, rare copy despite its flaws. All questions are welcome.