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[LIGNE, Charles-Joseph Prince de]. Préjugés militaires, par un officier autrichien. 'A Kralovelhota' (author's private press at Beloeil Castle). 2 volumes in 8vo. [4] + 224p; [2] + 148p including engraved dedication leaf, and 2 leaves of addititional index at end; with 20 engraved plates (mostly folding) showing arms and military tactics, 2 folding tables; 14 exquisitely engraved vignettes of battles by Choffard in the text. Ornamental vignettes. Half calf, marbled boards. First edition of one of the most charming 18th century illustrated book, a witty discussion of contemporary army tactics by an Austrian field marshal. The Prince de Ligne (1735-1814) first distinguished himself during the Seven-Years' War against Frederick the Great whom he greatly admired and who appears to be the only authority not questioned here. Ligne seems to have been a follower of the French tactician Guibert, who in turn had been influenced by the Prussian method. The first volume comprises general observations on cavalry and infantry, artillery, fortification, discipline etc, as well as chapters on military medicine and hospitals; it is adorned with exquisite miniature textual illustrations (48 x 73mm) of famous battles of the Seven Years' War (1756-63), engraved by Choffard after designs by the author, making it one of the most charming of 18th century books. The second volume, entitled 'Fantaisies Militaires', is devoted to battle orders, composition of army units, and general manoeuvres. This edition is also interesting as a typographical curiosity, having been printed at the author's private press at Beloeil Castle, famous for its gardens, and published with a spurious imprint. It was later reprinted at Dresden and translated into German in 1783. A few occasional insignificant light traces of usage, but a very good copy from the Liechtenstein collection with armorial bookplate on verso of front flyleaf of each volume. Barbier III, 991; Cohen-De Ricci 645. Deschamps 692. Jähns 2093. SEE ILLUSTRATION. Seller Inventory # 5352
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