Charles Perrault - Capendu - Le Chat Botté. [Livre à sytème fonctionnel] - 1890

"Le Chat Botté," or "Puss in Boots," is another classic fairy tale written by Charles Perrault in the late 17th century. This 1890 edition credited to Capendu is notable as a "livre à système fonctionnel," or a movable book, which employs mechanical elements to animate illustrations or create interactive scenes for the reader. These system books were popular in the 19th century as innovative educational and entertainment tools, making stories more engaging for children by involving tactile and visual play. The tale recounts the clever exploits of a cat who uses cunning and trickery to elevate his master's social standing. This blend of folklore narrative with mechanical ingenuity exemplifies the creativity in book production during the period, appealing to collectors interested in both the literary content and the bookmaking craftsmanship synonymous with Victorian children's books.