Beschreibung:

MALLET, Allain Manesson (1630-1706). Description de l'univers, contenant les differents syst ê mes du monde, les cartes g é n é rals et particuli è res de la g é ographie ancienne et modern. Paris: Denys Thierry, 1683. First edition of a geographical guide known for its wealth of accurately delineated maps and views, most after the author, a skilled draughtsman with a background in mathematics and military engineering. In 1668, after serving Alfonso VI in Portugal, Mallet became mathematics master at the French court. His earlier Travaux de Mars (two editions, 1671 and 1684) was a treatise on fortification. Vol. I of the Description outlines the planetary system, vol. II is on Asia, III Africa, IV and first part of V Europe. The last vol. is more of a catch-all, also having the ‘terres Australes’ and ‘L’Amérique’ as its subject. Plate 125 is a map of Virginia, and 129 an attractive view of the settlement at Saint Augustine, Florida. There is a brief text 'De l'Isle de Californie' (p. 334), and plates 133 and 146 both depict California as an island, as do plates 79 and 86 in vol. I. The full 5-vol. set is rare and enhanced in this copy by a contemporary morocco gilt binding. Brunet III, 1343; Pastoureau p.309; Sabin 44130. 5 volumes, octavo (215 x 135mm). 5 engraved frontispieces, engraved portraits of Louis XIV and the author, and 679 full-page engravings, consisting of maps, views, costumes and portraits (ownership signature cut from upper margin of titles, further inscription erased, some light marginal soiling and browning, occasional paper faults or segments torn from margins). Contemporary red morocco gilt, double triple fillet border and inner frame with pointillé tool at angles, spine gilt lettered and with repeated urn of flowers, gilt edges and inner dentelles (corners a little bumped). Provenance : L. Fourqueray, Malpeyre par Brioude Hte. Loire (ownership stamp on frontispiece, title or ensuing leaf, and dedication to each vol.).