Paris, Pierre Rocolet, 1629.
Folio, 1 l. frontispiece, (4) preliminary ll., 180 numbered pp. (skip in pagination from p. 18 to p. 21 without loss), 11 pp. for La Rochelle aux pieds du Roy, (1) l., 15 full-page engraved plates, 14 of them hors texte.
Vellum, double frame of gilt fillets on the boards, arms of the city of Paris stamped in gold at the center, smooth spine ornamented lengthwise with a double gilt fillet frame, gilt edges. Contemporary binding.
358 x 248 mm.
First issue of the sumptuous reception organized in Paris for Louis XIII and of his triumphant entry into his capital after his victory over the Huguenot stronghold of La Rochelle.
Cicognara, 1437; Ruggieri, 449; Vinet, 488; Berlin Catalog, 2995.
After realizing that the political rights granted to the Protestants, as well as their right to maintain an army, ran counter to the overall interests of France, Cardinal Richelieu laid siege to La Rochelle, the principal fortress of Huguenot interests.
The reception of the King organized in 1628 thus celebrated the Protestant capitulation.
“Rare volume, adorned with 15 plates, representing twelve triumphal arches and three chariots: the Golden Age, the Roman Circus, the Ship of the City of Paris. They were engraved on copper by Abr. Bosse, Melchior Tavernier, and G. Firens.
Very fine copy with the arms of the city of Paris.” (Catalogue Firmin-Didot, no. 470)
This beautiful festival book is adorned with 16 large full-page engravings.
The first 12 depict the twelve triumphal arches erected for the occasion and celebrating the twelve royal qualities: Clemency; Piety; Renown; Love of the people; Justice; the honor of naval battles; Prudence; the Majesty of the King; Strength, dedicated to the King’s exploits; Honor; the Magnificence of the King; the eternity of the King’s Glory.
The last 3 engravings represent the three chariots that formed part of the royal procession.
All these figures were the result of the combined talent of Melchior Tavernier and Pierre Firens.
At the head of the work indeed appears the large and beautiful engraving (305 x 230 mm) engraved after a drawing by Abraham Bosse, representing the deputies of La Rochelle at the feet of Louis XIII.
This plate is often lacking. (Benezit, II, 196–197).
Precious copy preserved in its contemporary vellum binding with the arms of the city of Paris.
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