52 - [FORBONNAIS (François Véron de)]. Research and Considerations on the Finances of France, from 1595 to 1721. Liège, n.p., 1758.

[FORBONNAIS (François Véron de)]. Research and Considerations on the Finances of France, from 1595 to 1721. Liège, n.p., 1758. 6 volumes, small 8vo, marbled calfskin, decorated ribbed spine, red edges (contemporary binding). Handwritten date labels on the spines. First edition in 8vo format, published the same year as the original 4to edition. Complete with all 37 fold-out tables. A few minor signs of wear on the bindings; otherwise, a very fine copy of this excellent history of public finances in France from Sully to Law (whose system is analyzed here with great insight). The author of this seminal work on economics, François Véron Duverger de Forbonnais (1722–1800), emphasized the importance of agriculture and industry for the kingdom’s economic development, thereby establishing himself as a precursor to the Physiocrats. Appointed Inspector General of the Mint in 1756, he was assigned in 1759 to work under Controller General Étienne de Silhouette and was largely responsible for the beneficial reforms implemented by that minister; but he was soon removed from office due to the intrigues of Madame de Pompadour. He retired to his estates and devoted his leisure time to writing his works.