477 - CHATEAUBRIAND (François René, Viscount of). Atala - René. Paris, Le Normant, 1805. In-12, [2] leaves–331 pp. Green long-grain half-maroquin with corner pieces, smooth spine with decorative embellishments, gilt title, author’s name at the tail (contemporary binding).

CHATEAUBRIAND (François René, Viscount of). Atala - René. Paris, Le Normant, 1805. In-12, [2] leaves–331 pp. Green long-grain half-maroquin with corner pieces, smooth spine with decorative embellishments, gilt title, author’s name at the tail (contemporary binding). First edition of *Atala* with Chateaubriand’s preface and the first edition combining *Atala* and *René*. It is illustrated with 6 engraved plates. (Vicaire II, 279.) Minor wear on the joints, slight water stains; otherwise a fine copy in a contemporary half-binding. The first edition of *Atala*, which is rare, dates from 1801. This work, considered a precursor to Romanticism and in which Chateaubriand places great emphasis on American nature, was originally conceived as a chapter of *Le Génie du Christianisme* (just like *René*, which serves as its sequel). Published separately, *Atala* was an immediate success, so much so that Chateaubriand issued five editions in 1801.