"Atlas Methodique et Elementaire de Geographie et d'Histoire…", Buy de Mornas, Claude

A large and difficult to find first edition atlas, with three volumes bound into one. Contains 135 hand-colored and extravagant copperplate maps, charts, tables and diagrams. An additional 52 pages of text are interspersed throughout. The double page plates are expertly engraved examples by Martinet and Aubin, and are accompanied by rococo style borders that were printed from separate plates. Volume I shows advances in cosmography, geology, astronomy and oceanography, etc., and is illustrated with numerous examples of terrestrial and celestial comparisons and depictions. Volumes 2 and 3 feature the history, geography and cartography of the Ancient World through the ages in tremendous detail. Each map is bordered at right and left with a chronology of events and other explanatory text. This is a superior example of this splendid and lavishly produced historical atlas. Folio. Complete in three parts, each with its own title page. Paper bookplate inside front cover. Original hardbound in mottled brown leather with gilt title on spine and very lovely gilt decorative touches on spine and along the edges of the boards.

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Condition: A

Text and maps generally very good to fine. A couple plates have unobtrusive spots, and plate 119 has a small piece missing from lower right corner, well away from image. Very light and occasional toning. Covers are scuffed and a bit shelf worn. Spine is split from front board, but still firmly attached, binding very tight and sound. Name of Geographer on title page has paste residue and a small abrasion. An extraordinary atlas in very nice condition.