In June 1984, the Syndicat national de la Librairie Ancienne et Moderne (SLAM) organised the first International Antiquarian Book Fair in Paris at the Conciergerie. In this historic location (once prison to Marie-Antoinette), the success was considerable. Paris became a regular destination for bibliophiles from all over the world. Since April 2007 the magnificent setting of the Grand Palais has been providing a unique occasion for the Salon International du Livre Ancien. In this most elegant venue and accompanied by high class exhibitions the Paris Fair is an exceptional cultural event and one of the most important market places for the rare book trade.

A Most Prestigious Event in the Bibliophile World

« Le plus important salon au monde en son domaine réunit chaque année à Paris, sous la nef mythique du Grand Palais, une collection d’oeuvres extraordinaires. Des manuscrits primitifs, nés dans la lutte ou le feu de l’inspiration, aux éditions princeps, exemplaires précieux, reliures somptueuses, mais aussi impressions exotiques, ouvrages savants ou populaires, livres interdits, photographies et cartes anciennes… tout ici éveille l’intérêt, l’étonnement et le désir des amateurs éclairés comme du grand public. Lorsqu’une collection est d’une telle qualité, elle transcende son statut et devient une oeuvre d’art, d’érudition et d’amour. »

Alain Nicolas (SLAM President)

From manuscripts to avant-garde, from a letter by François I to the drafts of Marcel Proust, from a 13th century psalm book to a futurist manifesto, dealers and collectors will browse the shelves of more than 150 antiquarian booksellers with thousands of stunningly diverse documents. Around 20.000 book fair visitors will meander through the Grand Palais and discover first editions, precious bindings, travel accounts, old and modern prints and photographies, handwritten letters and documents by artists, politicians and scientists, scores of famous musicians, treatises on medicine, astronomy, philosophy and other milestones in the history of science alongside with fine illustrated books, modern art and beautiful children’s books.

www.salondulivreancienparis.fr