HUGO (Victor) Ruy Blas Paris: H. Delloye; Leipzig: Brockhaus et Avenarius, 1838. -In-8, dark blue morocco, triple gilt fillet framing the covers, ornate ribbed spine, gilt lace inside, gilt edges (Émile Rouselle). First in-8 edition of "Ruy Blas", published just a few days after the original in-12. The title reads: "OEuvres complètes de Victor Hugo. Drame. Tome septième". This romantic drama was first performed on November 8, 1838, for the opening of the Théâtre de la Renaissance, which the author had co-founded. A real success, both popularly and financially, it shows the decadence of the monarchy under the reign of Charles II (1665-1700); in this respect, it was attacked by critics and conservatives who saw in it a challenge to the reign of Louis-Philippe. Copy with the double address of Paris and Leipzig. According to Talvart and Place (IX, p. 27), "these copies, no doubt intended to be sold abroad by the same booksellers who sold the in-12 edition, could represent the luxury edition of Ruy Blas". A fine copy in full binding by Émile Rouselle, with a portrait of the author engraved by Pollet and published by Blaizot.