150 - LE NORMAND, Marie-Anne Adélaïde. The Prophetic Memoirs of a Sibyl.

LE NORMAND, Marie-Anne Adélaïde. The Prophetic Memoirs of a Sibyl. Paris, Published by the Author, 1814. In-8 (20 x 12 cm), granite calfskin, smooth spine decorated with panels and a title label, covers gilt with a roulette, gilt edges. IX-596 pp. Binding slightly rubbed. First edition of the first book by Lenormand, a clairvoyant of the early 19th century, signed by her own hand on the title page. This work, which recounts her arrest in 1809 and provides numerous notes on divination, ancient magic, and the use of grimoires, launched her literary career and enhanced her reputation as a renowned fortune-teller. Marie Anne Adélaïde Lenormand (1772–1843) used cartomancy to advise Parisian dignitaries and visitors, including Alexander I of Russia, Louis XVIII, and Empress Josephine (whose marriage to a “great man” she predicted in 1794). Lenormand, who used the Etteilla Tarot and techniques such as palmistry, was involved in numerous controversies throughout her forty-year career. These high-profile incidents led to several arrests, one of which is illustrated on the frontispiece of this volume. A fine copy of this rare book, preserved in its original binding, in very good condition.