Memoires du Mareschal de Bassompierre contenant l'histoire de sa vie.

Edition with the same date as the original, and at the same address, but which does not possess the same collation. Furthermore, volume I does not contain the fleuron found on the original, although it appears on the title page of the second volume; the typographical material is substantially different for the title pages. The first volume contains 403pp. versus 501pp. for the original, the second has only 493pp. versus 132pp. and 808pp for the second volume of the original. There also exists a version in 3 volumes at Pierre Marteau's address on the same date. These differences between the three editions are not elucidated.
Full green shagreen bindings ca 1850 signed by Bruyère. Spine with raised bands decorated with 3 small fleurons, with gilt and blind fillets. Gilt titles and volume labels. Double fillet frame on covers. Interior border. All edges gilt. One lightened band at the top of the lower cover of volume I. Spines uniformly lightened, but very handsome copy, perfectly fresh.
Bassompierre was imprisoned at the Bastille in 1631 for having participated in the Day of the Dupes; he devoted his twelve-year detention to writing his memoirs (Journal de ma vie) then his embassies, which would appear in 1668. In addition to being one of the most accomplished gentlemen of his time, Bassompierre pursued two brilliant and parallel careers under Henri IV and Louis XIII, military and diplomatic. These memoirs have always been particularly appreciated, they bear the seal of bitterness from imprisonment and are the work of a great French gentleman.
Armorial bookplate from the 19th century of L. H. Ruault du Plessis Vaidière. A second bookplate H. Louyvet.