Romances. Plate errors. Classical nudity.

Discours 32, 124, multiple blanks between images unnumbered inc images approx 30pp. 8.5 by 15.5 cm's. Illustrated with an engraved frontispiece and 12 elegant full-page plates designed by Clément-Pierre Marillier. Bound in contemporary full marbled sheepskin (veau marbré), flat spine gilt in compartments with neoclassical geometric friezes and central urn motifs, contrasting dark leather title label lettered in gilt. Marbled endpapers. Plain edges. Plate Numbering Errors: Reflecting the hurried production and plate reuse common in late 18th-century French printing, several plates bear Roman numerals that do not correspond with the text: Romance XI is paired with Plate IX; Romance XII is paired with Plate VIII; Romance XIII is paired with Plate XI.Classical Nudity: Notably features a classical, semi-nude depiction of Geneviève de Brabant in the plate accompanying Romance III (L'Innocence reconnue), utilizing a standard neoclassical artistic motif to symbolize her survival and motherhood in the wilderness. A beautifully preserved, post-Revolutionary reprint of Berquin's highly popular pastoral and sentimental verses, originally published by Ruault in 1776. This scarce edition issued by Moutardier features the highly regarded neoclassical plates by Marillier. Condition: Very Good.Interior: Very clean, bright, and crisp text block. The plates are fine impressions with excellent contrast and minimal age-toning or foxing. Very tight and square binding structure.Exterior: Contemporary marbled leather binding remains robust with bright gilt on the spine. Visible shelf-wear and rubbing to the faces; bumping and light scraping to the corners exposing the underlying boards. The spine shows typical dryness and superficial cracking along the outer joints/hinges, with minor chipping to the head and tail, though the boards remain securely attached. Please view the multiple images for more information Tracking details will be forwarded to the purchaser.