Pair of 18th-Century French Leather-Bound Books — Lettres Sur L’Italie (1785), Vols. II & III

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A matched pair of original 18th-century French books from 1785, Volumes II and III of Lettres sur l’Italie. These small … Read more A matched pair of original 18th-century French books from 1785, Volumes II and III of Lettres sur l’Italie. These small leather-bound volumes (approx. 6 inches tall) were hand-printed and sourced in France. Both feature patinated leather bindings, raised bands, marbled endpapers, and hand-set pages with age toning, along with several engraved illustrations.

Inside are poetic travel letters chronicling the author’s journey through Italy in 1785 — Florence, Pisa, Siena, Livorno, and Rome. He writes with the romantic sensibility of the Enlightenment, describing fields embroidered with wildflowers, the gentle Tuscan landscapes, and the graceful, healthy, innocent young women working in the countryside, comparing them to the “nymphs” of ancient fables. The volumes also include reflections on Italian art, including a vivid description of the famous fresco “Aurora” in the Palazzo Rospigliosi.

The final letters return to France and close with a moving tribute to a beloved friend and reformer, ending on the memorable line: “When one stands before a friend’s tomb, one lingers longer than one intends.”

A beautiful preserved pair with the warm character expected of true antiquarian leather books. Ideal for collectors, libraries, display, or anyone who loves French or Italian history and literature. See less