[Friedrich Christian Laukhard] / [Franz Heinrich Bispink]...

Briefe eines preußischen Augenzeugen über den Feldzug des Herzogs von Braunschweig gegen die Neufranken im Jahre 1792 [und 1793]. 4 packs (out of 7) in two volumes - [Friedrich Christian Laukhard] / [Franz Heinrich Bispink] Germanien: No publisher mentioned, 1793-1794 / Uppsala: Bey Gustav Erichson, 1795. 4 packs (out of 7) in two volumes. Vol I: [2], 198, 240, 288 pages; Vol II: 240, [4], 241-490 pages. 16cm x 10.3cm. Hardcover with black marbled cardboard binding and red edges. A highly significant and scarce chronological run of the first four consecutive parts (Pack 1-4) of this vividly candid and critically essential eyewitness military chronicle. Published anonymously to evade aggressive Prussian and imperial state censorship, these collected volumes form the core narrative of the War of the First Coalition, tracing the coalition's advance into France, the grim realities of camp life, devastating epidemics, and the retreat after the pivotal Battle of Valmy. This specific set comprises the Second Edition of Pack 1 (1794), followed by the True First Editions of Pack 2 (1793), Pack 3 (1794), and Pack 4 (1795). This combination is bibliographically typical for the era, as the explosive popularity of the opening volume required an immediate second printing while the subsequent first-edition packs were still rolling off the press. Printed in German Fraktur (Blackletter) script on period rag paper. Rubbing, bumping, wear, and some damage to the boards and spines. The paper covering of the cardboard binding has some tears and is chipping off, especially in Vol I (see photos). In Vol I there are pencil markings on the front pastedown endpaper. In Vol II there is some damage of the outer margin of page 13/14, not affecting the content. Some browning and spotting throughout. The text is clear and the binding is solid in both volumes. Overall, a nice set in good- condition.

Estimate:£232.67

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