Les saisons

Seventh edition of Les Saisons, after the first edition published in 1769 and illustrated by Gravelot, but the first printing with Moreau's illustrations. This edition is a reprint of the 1769 edition and reproduces Chauffart's headpieces, but adds 7 figures by Moreau, engraved by Delaunay, Duclos, Lebas, and Prévost. It should also be noted that the heavy paper used for this edition is not the same as the fine paper of the first edition.
Contemporary full calf binding. Smooth spine richly decorated. Red morocco title label. Flamed calf boards (with Greek key border frame) of a later date added during restoration. Corners slightly bumped. A crack to the upper joint extending 5 cm. A reasonably good copy.
Les Saisons is preceded by a preface on bucolic and pastoral poetry and followed by tales (philosophical ones such as Ziméo), occasional pieces, and finally oriental fables. Voltaire had great admiration for Saint-Lambert, particularly for his masterwork: Les Saisons. This descriptive poetry is not without charm and would continue to be appreciated in the 19th century. Saint-Lambert was moreover indispensable to 18th-century literary society through his presence in the salons.