Nouveaux Melanges Philosophiques, Historiques, Critiques, &c. &c. Premiere [-Cinquieme] partie

Five volumes. A GORGEOUS COPY OF THE FIRST EDITION (with ALL HALF-TITLES PRESENT) of one of Voltaire's most important and fascinating works, a haphazard collection of philosophical and literary pieces which clearly demonstrate the depth and scope of his genius. The original intention was to publish only three volumes, and for that reason many bibliographers consider the first three volumes a complete work in itself, although Voltaire continued until the 19th volume appeared in 1776. I offer here the first three volumes along with the next two. In his introduction to the third part, Voltaire points out that some of the works which appear here had been published before, but only incorrectly and incompletely. He goes on to assert that many of the other works originally printed alongside them, and attached to his name, were not in fact by him. His reason for publishing this collection, therefore, was to present a definitive and complete text of many of his most important works, many of which are printed here for the first time. Included are his commentary on Beccaria, his Traite sur la tolerance (with documentation that had not previously been published), and dozens of other pieces. Volume 3 is complete with the supplement, which is often missing. Due to their subversive nature (they all ended up on the Catholic Church's Index of Prohibited Books), these books were published without the name of the author, the name of the publisher, or the place of publication. Due to their popularity, they were reprinted by Cramer and mercilessly pirated by other publishers. Most sets are mixed, with different printings by different publishers. The volumes I offer here, however, are first printings throughout. Nicely printed on fine laid paper, with numerous head- and tailpieces. 8vo. Bound in very attractive contemporary half French calf and decorated boards, spines in six compartments, leather spine labels. Minimal traces of wear to corners, else fine and bright, with large margins and no defects inside or out. Bengesco 2212; B.N. vol. 214, part I, columns 82-86; Barbier III, 531-532. A very rare and important set, in contemporary bindings and in excellent condition.