Bernard FOREST DE BÉLIDOR, La science des ingénieurs dans la conduite des travaux de fortification et d'architecture civile. Paris, Claude Jombert, 1729 1 vol. in-4° : Front. engraved by Rigault, title, 7f., 80-64-96-104-80-80p., 4f., 53pl. folded. Very good condition inside Bound in full brown calf, 5-rib mute spine and restored corners. First edition of this treatise on civil and military architecture, divided into 6 parts, dealing successively with theories of mechanics, masonry, construction of vaults and arches, properties of materials (and, for the first time, soil mechanics), planning and construction of civil and military buildings, modenatures and drawing up specifications. Although originally written to illustrate Belidor's course in military architecture, in line with the work of Vauban, it should be noted that the rules laid down are equally applicable to civil construction. This book greatly influenced the construction of civil and military hospitals in Carpentras, Valenciennes and Les Invalides. It was reprinted several times during the 18th and 19th centuries. A great classic of civil engineering and castration. The board on which the engineers order and the workers work will always be admired.