Charles Perrault - La Belle au Bois Dormant. Très bel enfantina XIXe. Rare. - 1880

"La Belle au Bois Dormant," or "The Sleeping Beauty," is a classic fairy tale famously penned by Charles Perrault in the late 17th century. This 1880 edition falls within the genre of "enfantina," referring to children's books from the 19th century designed specifically for young audiences with engaging illustrations and simple narratives. Such editions often captivate collectors due to their historical significance and the charm of their period-specific artwork. Perrault's tale narrates the story of a princess cursed to sleep for a hundred years until awakened by a prince's kiss, embodying themes of magic, fate, and true love. Early editions like this exemplify the beautiful craftsmanship of Victorian-era children's literature, often printed on quality paper with ornate covers and delicate typefaces. This rarity and the story's enduring popularity contribute to its allure among bibliophiles and fairy tale enthusiasts alike.