Folio Archives 22: The Count of Monte Cristo – Dumas 1999

The Count of Monte Cristo – Alexandre Dumas 1999

Considering the recent release of the FS Limited Edition of Alexandre Dumas’ The Count of Monte Cristo, I thought it would be timely to show the 1999 edition on which it is based.

It is a thick volume of 1016 pages, with 24 interesting double etchings by Roman Pisareo. A smaller top pane of the etching sets the scene, while the larger lower pane shows more detail about the action taking place.

There is a six page introduction by John Mortimer. Printed on Ibis paper at the Bath Press and bound in maroon buckram blocked with a design by the artist. The slipcase is plain maroon, as are the endpapers. The spine on my copy has flattened over the last 18 years and is actually very slightly concave,

The text was first published in French in serial form between 1844 and 1846. The translator used for the FS edition is unknown.

It is a heavy volume and difficult to read when held in the hand, and is probably best read with it resting on your crossed knees or on a table.

I believe the Limited Edition is internally identical to this edition.



































An index of the other illustrated reviews in the "Folio Archives" series can be viewed at : http://www.librarything.com/topic/266300

From the comparative levels of print-through shown in your photos against the image of the open book on the LE page I have to say that the Ibis paper of this edition looks to be a heavier grade than the Abbey Pure of the LE. I hope I'm wrong.

Looks better than the Limited Edition.

One of my first, and still one of my favourite, Folio's. Possibly the one that got me hooked on FS. I envy those who have bought the LE, especially if they are reading it for the first time, but can't really justify replacing the one I have.
I'll add my thanks for this excellent series of posts Warwick.

This post has made me order a second-hand copy from Ardis. Thank-you, Warwick.

Thank you for this review. It makes comparison with the LE much easier to assess.

Long time lurker, but first time poster. Love the Folio Archive posts!

>7 sat78:
Welcome to the madhouse, you will soon own far too many FS books.
Thanks for your positive comment. I will try to keep doing these every week or so.

>1 wcarter: Love the folio archives series. Please don't stop :)

>8 wcarter:
>9 venkysuniverse:
Same here!

>8 wcarter: so true! once you fall in love with FS its a slippery slope!

loving the archives. not jealous at all!!!

Edit: nvm

Looking at this again, the main thing that strikes me, apart from the quality of the binding and smooth creamy paper, is the weight. There's no getting away from it - this is a very heavy book indeed. It absolutely requires a table or book stand or your arms will quickly tire!

Edited to add that I've just weighed it (the book itself, without the slipcase) and it's 2.027 kg or nearly 4.5 pounds.

Some books really should be released in two volumes (or more). This is one of them.

I do love the concept where one can build upper body strength whilst being employed reading their favourite editions. :-)