CLAUDEL (Paul) Paris,, Mercure de France,, 1900... Knowledge of the East. Gr. in-12 (19,6 x 12,4 cm), navy blue calf, boards decorated with orange and gilt silk brocade representing a Chinese dragon surrounded by flowers and fruit, framed with gilt fillets, smooth spine, gilt head, untrimmed, covers and spine preserved (A. Lobstein). First edition. Mostly written during his stay in China between 1895 and 1899 - Paul Claudel had been appointed deputy consul in Shanghai - this collection is a tribute to Chinese culture. Enclosed is a visiting card from Claudel with a handwritten note: "Thé dimanche de 5h à 7h". Copy in an attractive binding by Lobstein with a sinister motif. Spine slightly rubbed, inside covers soiled and spine worn, ink faded on front cover, small marginal tear to first leaf of quire 12. Provenance: Giquello sale, 14 February 2020, no. 274.