JOMBERT (Charles-Antoine)]. A New Method for Learning to Dra - Lot 25

JOMBERT (Charles-Antoine)]. A New Method for Learning to Draw Without a Teacher. In which the basic elements and general rules of this great art are explained through new demonstrations… Paris, Charles-Antoine Jombert, 1740. In-4, 21.5 x 28.5 cm, 1 folio, 38 pp., 90 plates, including one folded plate + 30 plates, contemporary brown calfskin binding, spine ribbed and decorated with gilt motifs. First edition. The text is illustrated with a beautiful series of 120 engraved plates, including 13 by Cochin the Younger (including the double plate), who is also the creator of one of the headpieces. The series of the last 30 plates, engraved by Abraham Bosse after Paolo Farinati, bears the title “Various etched figures of little cupids, flying angels, and children, suitable for placement on pediments, doors, and other locations. Together with various kinds of masks devised by Paul Farinaste, an Italian,” and is dated 1736. The plates often vary from one copy to another. Includes 4 headpieces, a vignette, and a title vignette, 5 initials, and 5 tailpieces—one of which is dated 1738—all engraved. A very fine copy, purchased in November 1740 by Louis La Mares(?), then passed into the library of Paul François Poisson du Breil (1741–1808), secretary to the king in 1782, and remained in the family through inheritance (handwritten notes from the period in ink on the front of a flyleaf at the end of the volume). Dry stamp of La Baudière in Vendée (20th century) on a flyleaf at the beginning of the volume. Worn corners. Small tear at the top edge. Cohen 519. Expert: Cédric and Ithier de FOUGEROLLE