959 - ROBERT de VAUGONDY, [Gilles & Didier] Universal Atlas. Paris: published by the authors, Boudet, 1757. Folio: [4 incl. engraved title page]-33-[1] pp.; 108 maps, all with colored borders (margin of the “Old World” map slightly soiled and restored, some margins reinforced, some small stains in the lower blank of map 72 (Bohemia), some light stains in the central fold of the last map (Dominica), very few marginal spots). Contemporary mottled sheepskin, richly gilt spine with raised bands, red edges (rebacked, corners restored, light stain on front board, some light scratches on boards). Complete edition of Vaugondy’s Atlas, the first ever sold in France by subscription! Featuring a title page engraved by Ch. Baquoy and 108 maps, whose cartouches earned unanimous praise from critics. The Atlas—described as “convenient, complete, uniform, and up-to-date”—became the public’s favorite for over a century. It was indeed not designed for the scrutiny of geographers, but for the public, “for whom the maps provide a means by which one might be transported to the scene and find oneself on the threshold of judging events and even of reflecting upon the future.” Nonetheless, the Vaugondys searched for geographical information with great thoroughness and used their sources according to a strict method. Ref. Bel et utile 228–229.