Creighton University

“Collection of Sketches.”  Seurre Ainé was a pen name for Bernard Gabriel Seurre.  This massive book – 22¼” x 15” and over 17 pounds in weight – is the loving creation of Harry J. Hendriks at Antiquariaat De Keerkring in Malden, Netherlands.  He mentioned that it cost him €150 to have it skillfully rebound.  And skillfully rebound it is!  Between its covers, after a title-page, is the complete set of 96 sketches.  Their style is eminently “classical,” with half-naked figures dressed in Greek clothing and surrounded by classical architecture.  Each sketch has a fable title from La Fontaine at its top, a short selection of the fable’s verse under the illustration, with a small serial number just below the picture.  Among the best for me are 2W (8-9); “Teacher and Drowning Child” (10); CW (15); MSA (16-20); “Ass and Lapdog” (28); “Eye of the Master” (38); “Old Woman and Two Servants” (44-46); “Young Widow” (59-61); MM (64-65); “Cobbler and Banker” (69-72); and “Gardener and Bear” (74).  This is a wonderful, unique addition to the collection!