Paris: Lefuel, 1822. 26 original circular watercolour designs by Jean-Charles Develly, executed in sepia & black & white, of which 3 are preliminary watercolour sketches (for ‘K’ and ‘Z’ and another for ‘etcetera') for this important children’s alphabet; all contained in a small drawing book, the title-page reading ‘Alphabet des Petits Gourmands. K. 31 Mars 1822.' The cover reading, ‘Croquis des petits Gourmands 1822.’ The watercolours are circular, measuring seven centimetres in diameter. Though unsigned, we are completely satisfied that they are the work of this important artist, best known for his designs for porcelain decoration at the Sevres factory. As well as being a water-colourist Develly was also an engraver and a lithographer. In the published book, each of the illustrations, which are all printed by lithography, is enclosed within a floral border embellished with kitchen utensils.