The Unknown Masterpiece

In four novellas, Balzac reflects on the limits of human passion and obsession—through alchemy, art, the search for truth, and the dream of immortality. “Elixir of Longevity,” “The Unknown Masterpiece,” “The Quest for the Absolute,” and “Melmoth Forgiven”—works that, together with “The Wild Ass’s Skin,” form the “Philosophical Studies” of the great French author.

“Elixir of Longevity.” At the bedside of a father dying, Don Juan—a celebrated seducer and an unshakable cynic—comes into his hands a powerful and dangerous magical artifact and becomes its keeper…

“The Unknown Masterpiece.” An elderly painting master devotes his entire life to creating a single canvas—the mysterious portrait he shows to no one, ever…

“The Quest for the Absolute.” A noble Fleming, gripped by a thirst for knowledge, is ready to pay any price: to squander a fortune, to remain alone, to sever ties with his family, and even to cross the line of the law…

“Melmoth Forgiven.” For many centuries, the immortal Melmoth the Wanderer has roamed the world. But who would dare to accept from him the gift of eternal life—along with the curse inherited with it?

You have before you four impressive novellas included, together with “The Wild Ass’s Skin,” in the cycle “Philosophical Studies.”