Etats-Unis d'Amérique.

Author was the French minister to the U.S. from 1829-31, and this work represents a first-hand view in French of the U.S. It was commissioned as part of a major series by Didot to document various countries in the world. Richly illustrated with engravings, some copied from earlier sources (such as De Bry), and many others of scenes of buildings, landscapes and people. Nice folding map of the U.S. Howes, R473; Monaghan (French travellers in the United States, 1765-1932), 1272; 95 of 96 plates (lacks engraved portrait of George Washington). Early boards, repaired, somewhat scuffed, worn at corners, backed with calf spine having bright gilt stamping and lettering. Typical edge soil. The front hinge has been expertly reinforced and the copy is tight and sound. Small decorative paper labels carefully apposed in register on half-title recto and verso. (Purpose appears to be to hide Bucureşci, Romania, antiquarian bookseller stamp). Small stamp on t.p., small stamps and writing (numbers) on rear pastedown. Some light scattered foxing and stains but not oppressive. Most text pages and plates are clean with no foxing, and otherwise there are no marks, stains, tears or folds. This copy has been expertly cleaned and repaired. …