Rare 1766 Signed by Jerome Napoleon Bonaparte "Lucan’s Pharsalia" by Marmontel

Type

Book

An Exceptional 18th-Century Literary Masterpiece with Royal Napoleonic Provenance, Housed in a Custom Protective Enclosure. On offer is a rare and historically significant copy of "LA PHARSALE DE LUCAIN" (The Pharsalia of Lucan), translated into French by M. Marmontel, of the l'Académie Françoise, and published in Paris in 1766. This particular edition stands out not only for its antiquity and the scholarly translation by the esteemed writer Jean-François Marmontel but also for its remarkable provenance. For serious inquiries, a major international auction house estimate can be provided privately upon request. Local pick-up in Dana Point, CA; cash or Zelle only! Happy to answer any questions. Reasonable offers welcomed! Provenance to Jérôme Napoléon Bonaparte: This volume is a truly unique artifact, bearing direct evidence of its ownership by Jérôme Bonaparte (1(contact info removed)), the youngest brother of Emperor Napoleon I and King of Westphalia. On the front pastedown, a distinct "JEROME NAPOLEON BONAPARTE" ex-libris label identifies its place in his personal library. Further, the title page prominently bears the handwritten signature of Jérôme Napoleon Bonaparte at the very top. Additionally, his initials "J.N.B." are also present on the page opposite the title page. Items from the personal libraries of members of the Napoleonic Imperial family, especially those with multiple layers of authentication like this, are highly sought after by collectors worldwide, adding immense historical and monetary value to this already significant work. About the Work and Translation: Lucan's "Pharsalia" (also known as "De Bello Civili") is one of the most important epic poems of the Roman Empire, detailing the civil war between Julius Caesar and Pompey the Great. This 1766 French translation by Jean-François Marmontel (1(contact info removed)), a celebrated philosopher, encyclopédiste, and member of the prestigious Académie française, marks a key moment in the dissemination of classical literature during the Enlightenment. Marmontel's translation was renowned for its elegance and accessibility, bringing this Roman epic to a wider French audience. Exquisite 18th-Century Engravings: The volume is further enhanced by superb engraved illustrations, notably designed by Hubert-François Gravelot (1(contact info removed)), one of the most influential and prolific French illustrators of the 18th century, known for his elegant Rococo style. The presence of Gravelot's work significantly elevates the artistic merit and collectibility of this edition. Physical Description & Condition: The book is bound in its original full mottled calf leather, a testament to 18th-century craftsmanship. The edges show signs of age and handling commensurate with a book of its venerable age of over 250 years, including rubbing to the extremities and some wear to the spine. The marbled endpapers are beautifully preserved. The front internal hinge shows signs of stress/starting, which is common for books of this age and can be professionally addressed if desired by the new owner. The text block itself appears generally clean with typical age-toning to the paper, free from significant foxing or major tears. Please review all accompanying photographs closely, as they form part of the condition description. As detailed above and visible in images, the full mottled calf binding shows typical age-appropriate wear, including rubbing to edges, corners, and spine, with some chipping to the head and tail of the spine. The front board is firmly attached but the hinge shows a slight separation at the joint. Custom Protective Enclosure: Adding to its desirability and long-term preservation, this historic volume is housed in a handsome custom-made, sturdy brown cloth slipcase/enclosure, dated 1981. This protective case demonstrates a previous owner's commitment to the book's care and ensures its continued protection. Seller Note: Buy with confidence! I have a 100% positive feedback rating on eBay since 2009. Feel free to inquire for details!