1844 "Oeuvres de Voltaire" Full Leather Book

The book, Oeuvres de Voltaire, focuses on Voltaire’s Histoire de Russie, offering historical, scientific, and literary notes. Published in Paris by P. Pourrat in 1844, this work explores the reign of Peter the Great, reflecting Voltaire’s Enlightenment ideals of progress and rational thought. Voltaire sought to educate readers about governance, historical complexity, and reform through this volume, which contributed to Europe's understanding of Russian modernization under Peter the Great. The book’s binding is a full leather design with intricate gilding on the spine, indicative of a custom or high-quality binding, likely created for a scholar or academic institution. A unique feature is the Collegé Royal de Toulouse bookplate from 1845-46, suggesting it was awarded as a prize for academic excellence, adding provenance and historical significance to the piece.

The book is in good overall condition for its age, though it exhibits signs of wear. The leather cover retains its original gold tooling, though there is moderate rubbing on the spine and some wear on the corners. Foxing is present throughout the pages, a typical trait of 19th-century paper, with occasional stains and marks that reflect its age and use. The Collegé Royal de Toulouse bookplate inside adds a layer of historical intrigue, further enhancing its value as a collectible. Overall, it is a handsome and historically significant volume that embodies the intellectual spirit of its era.

Condition:

Good condition.