A ground-breaking symbolist work. A splendid example of this important illustrated work, claimed by numerous artistic movements over the years, including Symbolism and Art Nouveau, although the artist himself preferred the term 'neo-traditionalist'. Denis intentionally set out to decorate a book without direct servitude to the accompanying text, instead embroidering the pages with arabesques of expressive lines. The lithographs are printed on a tinted background, the background colour changing for each of the three parts of the book, their size and layout complemented by the typefaces, aspiring to create a uniquely immersive experience for the reader.

Nobel Prize-winning André Gide requested that Denis be his collaborator for this work, via the director of the Librairie de l'Art Indépendant. Gide's imaginative text is generally considered to be an allegory for his own voyage toward self realisation, sailing to unknown and mysterious places.

Particularly uncommon with the original wrappers present.

First edition, number 133 of 300 copies on Holland paper; 4to (195 x 185 mm); 30 lithographed tonal illustrations; contemporary morocco backed marbled boards ruled in gilt, with the original wrappers bound in, the upper with a further, plain woodcut illustration by Denis.