Beyträge zur Kriegs-Kunst und Geschichte des Krieges von 1756 bis 1763 by TIELKE (or TIELCKE), Johann Gottlieb

Finely engraved vignette on titles, each different, 48 engraved plates of maps, plans, & charts (six heightened in color) on 40 folding sheets, & one folding printed table. Six vols. Large 4to, cont. speckled boards (several with minor rubbing), red vellum lettering pieces on spines. Freiberg: Barthel, 1775-76-78-81-84-86. First edition of this outstanding history of the German campaigns during the Seven Years' War, describing the strategies employed during the conflict. Tielke (1731-87), wrote a series of works on military history and science based on his extensive theoretical knowledge, as well as first-hand combat experience - he was wounded at the Battle of Torgau. Tielke not only recapitulates the decisive moments of these campaigns, he also furnishes case studies regarding tactics, artillery, and fortification. The present work received much praise for its precise methodology, presentation of arguments, and judicious use of historical examples. The finely executed plates include highly detailed maps and battle-plans, including those for Schweidnitz and Maxen, plans and cross-sections of fortifications, and charts of formations and their evolution during the course of the battles. Many of the plates contain complex diagrams, highlighting trajectories and lines-of-sight, and are clearly intended for the instruction of field engineers. A fine copy. ❧ A.D.B., Vol. 38, pp. 286-88. Jähns 1870f.: "Die wissenschaftliche Gründlichkeit der Beiträge, die Sicherheit der Behandlung, die Genauigkeit in den Angaben und nicht zum wenigsten die kluge und massvolle Art, in welcher der Verfasser die geschichtliche Darstellung für seine theoretischen Anschauungen nutzbar macht, verschafften dem votrefflichen Werke den lebhaften Beifall aller Einsichtigen...In so lehrreicher Weise wie dieser Ingenieur für sein Fach hat kein damaliger Taktiker Friedrichs Feldzüge für das seinige ausgebeutet.".