Folio Society Publishes Limited Edition of Madame Bovary

London — Gustave Flaubert’s masterpiece Madame Bovary is The Folio Society’s stunning new limited edition. Illustrated with sensual oil paintings by Nushka, and beautifully bound in Douppion silk, this exquisite edition mirrors the perfection of the writing inside. Limited to just 750 copies, each has been signed by the introducer, the translator and the artist.

The story follows Emma, a rural doctor’s wife, who yearns to escape the banality of her life. A masterpiece in realism, the novel, subtitled Provincial Morals, was controversial when it was first serialised in 1856, and lead to Flaubert standing trial for obscenity. More than 150 years on, Madame Bovary’s depiction of desire, disaffection and love is as poignant now as it was then.

Originally painted in oils, Nushka’s subtle, sensual compositions are infused with a blend of American and European influences. Nushka staged the scenes she chose to paint for this edition using live models, props and costumes. The result is artwork that is subtly abstracted, intimate and evocative.

The acclaimed translation selected for this edition is by Adam Thorpe, and only uses syntax, vocabulary and expressions that were in general use up until the 1850s, when Madame Bovary was first published. This approach immerses readers in the ambiance of 19th-century France.

Completing the edition is an exclusive new introduction specially commissioned from Norwegian novelist Karl Ove Knausgård. In it, he explains not only why Madame Bovary is ‘the perfect novel’, but also why ‘the novelist of today continues to write in Flaubert’s shadow’.

Product information
The edition is limited to 750 hand-numbered copies signed by the translator, the introducer and the artist. UK £245.00 US$350.00 Can $470.00 Aus $540.00 *prices subject to change