Hist.of The Republic Of Venice By M.a. Laugier, 12 Volumes In 12mo, Library Of The Of Hanover

A rare set of 12 volumes in duodecimo, from the rich and prestigious library of Ernest Augustus I (1771-1851), King of Hanover (1837-1851), fifth son of George III, King of England (Bookplate with wet stamp). The set is preserved in a contemporary binding of mottled and glazed blond calf, with smooth spines decorated with gilt floral compartments, black and red morocco title and volume labels, triple fillet borders, marbled endpapers, and bright gold edges. This is the first edition of this important work on the History of Venice, published by Marc-Antoine Laugier (1713-1769), a former Jesuit who became a Benedictine abbot, and a French historian and theorist of 18th-century architecture. A bit of history: the Republic of Venice, sometimes called "La Serenissima," gradually formed during the Middle Ages around the city of Venice, and expanded through the annexation of various territories in Northern Italy, along the Adriatic coast and in the Eastern Mediterranean, eventually becoming one of the major economic powers in Europe. Barbier (II. 7590).