[DAMIENS (Robert François)]. - Lot 18

[DAMIENS (Robert François)]. Histoire de Robert François Damiens, contenant les particularités de son parricide et de son supplice. Amsterdam : Jacques La Caze, 1757. - In-12, half brown cloth à la Bradel, smooth spine, red edges (19th century binding). Sought-after first edition of this work recounting the life, attempted regicide, trial and torture of Robert-François Damiens (1715-1757), executed on March 28, 1757 for attempting to assassinate King Louis XV. The executioner, Gabriel Sanson, was unable to withstand the agony. This publication is absolutely contemporary with the events, and includes a beautiful and interesting frontispiece showing Damiens in three-quarter view, surrounded by 5 scenes depicting different episodes in his life, from his arrest to his quartering and the burning of his limbs. A good copy in 19th-century binding. Corners slightly dulled. A few scattered brown spots. Light stain on frontispiece.