John Adams - Choix de voyages modernes - 1799

ADAMS, John (translated from English by J. F. André). Choice of modern travelogues, containing a variety of useful and pleasant facts relating to expeditions and the major discoveries made around the world, as well as descriptions of the manners and customs of the peoples. For instruction and amusement of both sexes. Paris, at Henry Tardieu, An VIII (1799-1800). Edition in 2 volumes, octavo (complete). Volume I (402 pp. + index) and Volume II (411 pp. + index). The set is illustrated with folding geographical maps, including a large world map showing the routes and discoveries of modern travelers. A year-end prize copy, enriched with a very beautiful and rare typographic ex-dono pasted on the pastedown: "Prix de la pension de M. Chênée, accordé à M. Demarechal le 26 Thermidor an 13". Full contemporary calfskin binding, roan-backed, with a richly decorated smooth spine featuring gilt lozenge medallions, title pieces in red morocco and black spine pieces, gilded rolls on the edges, splendid marbled endpapers. This travel collection, translated from English by J. F. André, offers a fascinating panorama of the great maritime and terrestrial explorations of the late 18th century aimed at the enlightened and curious youth of the Directory and the Consulate. The work compiles narratives of bold crossings (fur trade, distant trading posts, the customs of indigenous populations) and includes a superb engraved map. A period binding in excellent condition, with its superb original marbling, hinges and corners in excellent shape. Very clean interior, preserving its beautiful marbled endpapers as well as the rare nominative price mark or label of the "pension de M. Chênée" dated An XIII. A homogeneous, charming, and highly desirable set.

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