Contes libertins du dix-huitième siècle (Libertine Tales of the Eighteenth Century) was one of the many such illustrated collections put out by Paris publishers in the 1930s and 40s, this one being distinguished by Calbet’s trademark illustrations and elegantly produced by the upmarket Le Vasseur. This particular collection was compiled by the prolific author, essayist and poet Edmond Pilon (1874–1945), who put together several popular collections of French literature.

The twelve Calbet illustrations demonstrate well his mature style, an ability to create telling scenes of intimacy with sure lines and the judicious use of colour.

Contes libertins du dix-huitième siècle was published by Le Vasseur in a limited numbered edition of 602 copies.