Catalogue des Livres et Estampes du Cabinet de feu M. de Gravelle, Conseiller au Parlement: dont la vente se fera...lundi 17 Avril 1752 & jours suivans

1 p.l., 120 pp.; 21 p. & 19 leaves of author index in a contemporary hand. Two parts in one vol. 8vo, attractive antique calf-backed paste-paper boards, spine gilt, red morocco lettering piece on spine. Paris: G. Martin, 1752. One in a series of the very rare later auction catalogues issued by Gabriel Martin (the Paris de Meyzieu of 1761 being his last). This library was formed by Gravelle (1699-1752), a magistrate in the court of inquiry of the Paris Parliament who is today best remembered for his Recueil de pierres gravées antiques, published between 1732 and 1739, and for his parody L'Amant déguisé, which was performed after his death. He was an expert engraver who prepared the etchings for his book on engraved gems. This was a fine and scholarly library of 1723 lots, rich in literature and books on antiquities and art. There are many 16th-century works. The final 21 pages describe his large collection of prints and drawings (113 lots), including works by Watteau, van Dyck, Boucher, Guercino, Le Brun, Rembrandt, Teniers, An. Carracci, etc. Fine copy. The first part has been priced throughout in a contemporary hand. There is also a most unusual manuscript index at the end. ❧ Lugt 785. Benezit Dictionary of Artists. Esprit des Livres website. Not in Grolier Club, Printed Catalogues of French Book Auctions...1643-1830.