Levis

1810 · réf. 161693 — Paris: P. Didot l'Ainé 1810. First edition of this intriguing work of futuristic fiction imagining a visit to Europe in the early 20th century by a Chinese couple. The work marks the first use of the narrative device of a pull-out newspaper from the future - in this case the Journal du Déjeneur recounting world events on 15 September 1910. Les Voyages de Kang-Hi is intended "partly to describe present French manners from a distancing perspective. and partly to show plausible developments in technology" Alkon pp. 198-9 and it emulates the form of Montesquieu's Persian Letters. The author 1764-1830 was the son of Marshal Francis de Gaston and a politician and intellectual. During the French Revolution following the dissolution of the National Constituent Assembly of which he was a member he fled to England. 2 vols duodecimo 168 x 97 mm. With 3 folding plates. Near-contemporary quarter sheep smooth spine divided by gilt scrolling rolls compartments tooled with gilt five-pointed stars red and green labels red sides pale blue endpapers edges yellow and speckled blue. Near-contemporary ownership label of one L. Perrin fils on front pastedowns. Losses to spines worming to two boards and final 30 leaves of vol. II slightly affecting text first plates in vol. I slightly proud were sometime incorrectly refolded. An acceptable copy with contents presenting nicely. Cordier 2nd edition p. 639; Lust 1280; Versins p. 534; not in Löwendahl. Paul K. Alkon Origins of Futuristic Fiction 2010. hardcover