VIALA, Pierre (1859-1936), et al. Traite´ ge´ne´ral de viticulture: ampe´lographie. Paris: Masson et cie, 1901-1910.

VIALA, Pierre (1859-1936), et al. Traite´ ge´ne´ral de viticulture: ampe´lographie. Paris: Masson et cie, 1901-1910.

First edition of the most beautiful and important work on modern viticulture. The eminent oenologist Pierre Viala collected contributions from other botanical and wine-making experts to create an encyclopedic treatise on wine, with a catalogue of all known wine grapes—some of which no longer exist. This monumental work is illustrated by 500 lush chromolithographs after Alexis Kreÿder and J. Troncy, as well as 70 further black-and-white lithographs and copious illustrations in the text. Viala is credited with saving French wine because of his work combatting the deadly outbreak of phylloxera known as the “Great French Wine Blight.” Bibliotheca Vinaria 60; Nissen BBI 2059.

Seven volumes, folio (344 x 251mm). 570 lithographed plates, 500 of which in color; many in-text illustrations (lightly toned; minor loss to surface color of some plates in vol. 3). Contemporary burgundy pebbled cloth with blindstamped art nouveau design (hinges in some volumes cracked; spine panels and joints worn; occasional minor damage to boards).