18th Century Bound Books Lettres Provinciales Pascal Complete 4 Volumes Louis de Montal

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This lot includes four bound volumes, comprising the complete "Lettres Provinciales" by Louis de Montalte, pseudonym of Blaise Pascal, visible in the photograph. Each volume features a period binding, adorned on the spine with cold-stamped gilt motifs and inlaid titles: "LETTRES PROVIN", followed by the volume number (TOM I, TOM II, TOM III, TOM IV). The spines are decorated with florets, fillets, and vegetal motifs typical of the 18th century, with a characteristic brown patina of antique books. The titles and volume numbers are clearly visible, gilded on a red or black background, depending on the volume.

The visible edges show uniform wear, testifying to the age and handling of these works. The headbands show signs of use, particularly on the first volume where the upper headband is slightly rubbed. The leather texture, with its cracks and nuances, attests to artisanal manufacturing and a long stay on library shelves. The gilt decorations, still well-preserved, add an authentic character to the whole.

Each volume is distinguished by a solid structure, with prominent raised bands on the spines, typical of classic 18th-century bindings. The covers are not visible in the photo, but the side view suggests a regular thickness for each of the four volumes. The set is placed on an antique wooden surface, which accentuates the historical aesthetic of the presentation.

The photo highlights the uniform character of the series, with a homogeneity of height and decoration. The main inscriptions ("LETTRES PROVIN", "TOM I", etc.) are clearly legible, essential elements for identifying the work and its completeness. The soft light from the candle on the right emphasizes the beauty of the patina and the fineness of the gilding, without masking the marks of time.

Condition

Set in visible used condition: marked rubbing on headbands and raised bands, gilding partially faded in places, cracks and wear of the leather on the spines. Titles remain legible on each volume. Used books sold as is.

Did you know? "Lettres Provinciales" were published anonymously by Blaise Pascal under the name Louis de Montalte between 1656 and 1657. This major work of French polemical literature was quickly disseminated throughout Europe and played a decisive role in the history of religious and philosophical ideas of the 17th century.

AFW Reassurance

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Keywords: Lettres provinciales, Pascal, Louis de Montalte, bound books, 18th century, leather binding, complete work, French literature, volumes, antique books, French literature, set of 4 volumes