214 - DELANDINE (French Antilles) (1756–1820). Manuscripts from the Lyon Library, or Notes on Their Age, Their Authors, and the Subjects They Cover.

DELANDINE (French Antilles) (1756–1820). Manuscripts from the Lyon Library, or Notes on Their Age, Their Authors, and the Subjects They Cover. Paris, Renouard, Schoel, Lenormand; Lyon, Available at the library and in bookstores, 1812, 3 volumes in-8, VIpp.-485pp. - 2ff.-542pp. - 2ff.-594pp.-1f. Brown sheepskin, covers framed with a Greek-style fillet, smooth, decorated spines, title labels, marbled edges. (Contemporary bindings). - A gift copy presented by the author to a distinguished compatriot. The inside front cover bears the following label: “Work printed in an edition of 500 copies. No. 146 (ms). Presented to Mr. [ms:] Philippon de La Magdeleine, a member of several academies, a native of Lyon who brings honor to his homeland, and as beloved for his virtues and the qualities of his heart as he is distinguished by his talents (sic), by his friend and compatriot Delandine, the author of this work. 1813” (the ink has faded).—The bookbinder has preserved the two sheets of binding labels. Minor, insignificant scuffs; a few small foxing spots or stains. First and only edition published. Only 500 copies were reportedly printed (according to the label affixed to this one). Organized by theme, the items are carefully—and sometimes at great length—described. This impressive work begins with a history of the libraries of Lyon, followed by a historical essay on manuscripts, their ornamentation, their value... The bibliographer and historian Fr.-Ant. Delandine compiled the catalogs of his city’s library. (Quérard II, p. 437).