(44)pp. A miniature history of commedia dell'arte, a professional theatrical tradition that originated in Italy and gained popularity throughout Europe between the 16th and 18th centuries. The text is pulled from Maurice Sand's 1860 study of the form, Masques et Bouffons (Comedie Italienne), and contains reproductions of his drawings showing the key archetypal figures typically found in a commedia production, such as Pierrot and Harlequin. Bound in canvas with wood supports to resemble the reverse side of a stage set. Miniature bookmark laid in. Fine. (2 5/8 by 1 1/2; 68x37mm).