CHOIX DE CHANSONS MISES EN MUSIQUE de La Borde, (Jean- Benjamin) de (1734-1794) - 1881

Rouen: J. Lemonnyer Libraire, 1881. A fine later issue of the famous 1773 edition, considered one of the most beautiful books of the 18th century. Exceptionally fine and beautiful. A fine later issue of the famous 1773 edition, considered one of the most beautiful books of the 18th century. Four volumes in two. Tall 8vo. Text and music entirely engraved in copper by Moria and Mlle Vendome. Illustrated with titles and frontispieces after by Moreau, Le Bouteux and Le Barbier and 100 figures plates after Moreau, Le Barbier, Le Bouteux and Saint-Quentin, all engraved by Moreau, Masquelier and Nee. Bound by Zaehnadorf in full scarlet crushed morocco with marbled endpapers, t.e.g., the spines with gilt titles and panel ornaments, double ruled covers and fancy dentelles. Original upper wrapper of each volume bound in rear. La Borde was first valet de chambre to Louis XV.
"One consequence [of the king's generosity] was the appearance of this book, in which the feeble songs and inept music are presented with the utmost sumptuousness. Its 100 plates and engraved text carry vanity publication to its furthest reach. That Moreau should have contrived to make the first volume of this work a masterpiece is something of a miracle, even though he ensured its perfection by engraving as well as designing the plates... The plates devoted to persons of quality... allowed Moreau to come within hailing distance of reality as he contrasted the elegance of good society with the idyllic simplicity of his country folk." ( Ray. French. p. 90-91).
For the 1773 edition: Brunet III, p. 712-713; Cohen - De Ricci, p. 534-538; Ray. French, no. 49.