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Maison de Ventes Richard
10
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[BOULANGER (Nicolas Antoine)]. Research into the Origin of E…
See original version (French)
10
-
[BOULANGER (Nicolas Antoine)]. Research into the Origin of E…
See original version (French)
Estimate €200 - €300
Voluntary lot
Description
[BOULANGER (Nicolas Antoine)]. Research into the Origin of Eastern Despotism. A posthumous work by Mr B.I.D.P.E.C. Paris, Compagnie des Libraires Associés, 1763. (2) ff., XIX, 180 pp. [Followed by:] [DU PEYROU (Pierre-Alexandre)]. Letter to Mr *** concerning J.-J. Rousseau. Goa, at the expense of the Holy Office, 1765. (1) folio, 63 pp. Two texts in an in-12 volume, marbled sheepskin, decorated ribbed spine.
A new edition of *Recherches sur l’origine du despotisme oriental* by Nicolas-Antoine Boulanger (1722–1759), the first edition of which was published in 1761 under the supervision of Baron d’Holbach. An engineer of the Ponts et Chaussées and a contributor to the Encyclopédie, Boulanger conceived his treatise as a continuation of Montesquieu’s *The Spirit of the Laws*. In it, he explores, in particular, the origins of despotism in ancient theocracies and the relationship between political and religious power.
A valuable comparison with the ‘Letter from Goa’ by Pierre-Alexandre Du Peyrou (1729–1794). Published anonymously in 1765, this letter represents Du Peyrou’s intervention in the fierce controversy then surrounding Rousseau in Neuchâtel. In it, he defends the philosopher, particularly against the attacks by the pastor Frédéric-Guillaume de Montmollin. This edition, comprising 63 pages, contains only Du Peyrou’s Letter, without Montmollin’s Refutation.
See original version (French)
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About the sale
Antique and modern books: catalogued sale
Auction location
Auction time
11/14/2026 at 10:30 AM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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