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an open book with a picture of a man standing in front of itan old book sitting on top of a table covered in leather
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349 - The reasons why the Most Christian King preferred the Will o…
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Estimate €400 - €500
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Description
The reasons why the Most Christian King preferred the Will of Charles II to the partition of the Spanish succession. The benefits accruing to him therefrom, together with the interests of the Princes of Europe in such a momentous event. And also the means of preventing any war that might arise from it. In Pamplona, at Jaques Lenclume’s, 1701. In-12, 19th-century bronze morocco, triple gilt fillet moulding on the covers with small fleurons at the corners, smooth spine with wear, filleted edges, gilt interior edging and gilt edges, 3 rubbed corners – frontispiece engraving, 228 pp. As Charles II of Spain had no heir, his succession became a matter of European concern and, in March 1700, a treaty of partition was concluded between France, England and the United Provinces, which ultimately called into question the will of the Spanish sovereign, who died on 1 November 1700, and who had bequeathed the kingdom to the Duke of Anjou, grandson of Louis XIV, on condition that it should not be divided. The will displeased England and the United Provinces, and placed Louis XIV in a difficult position, as illustrated by the frontispiece depicting him holding a snake at the entrance to a labyrinth, with the caption: “The path through a labyrinth / Is a path one does not like / But Louis ventures in without fear / Prudence guides his steps.” Louis XIV decided to accept the will, a prelude to the War of the Spanish Succession. First and only edition, extremely rare.
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About the sale Sale of antique and modern books
Auction location
Auction time 10/01/2026 at 10:00 AM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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