Viscount Valmont - Les Liaisons Dangereuses

Published in the late 1990s, this manga adaptation reimagines Pierre Choderlos de Laclos's epistolary novel, Les Liaisons Dangereuses, within the stylistic framework of shōjo manga. Saitou Chiho, renowned for her intricate historical settings and dramatic character work, sought to translate the cold, calculated maneuvers of 18th-century French aristocracy into a visually rich narrative that emphasizes the psychological tension and romantic betrayals inherent in the original source material.

The design of the volume reflects the hallmarks of Saitou’s aesthetic, characterized by sweeping lines, expressive facial features, and elaborate period costumes that bridge the gap between French Rococo fashion and contemporary manga sensibilities. Upon its release, the work was noted by critics for its bold reinterpretation of classic literature, serving as a distinct example of how the shōjo medium frequently engages with Western literary canons to explore themes of power and emotional volatility.