Rousseau, Jean-Jacques

8vo (217 x 122mm.), half-title with "Du contract social;", engraved vignette of Liberty on title-page, modern marbled calf in period style with double gilt fillet border, spine gilt in compartments with red morocco lettering-piece, marbled endpapers, EDGES UNCUT, occasional light damp-staining

Dufour 133; PMM 207

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

FIRST EDITION (type B) of "Rousseau's greatest work" (PMM), his statement of the need for equality of all men within the state which became the French Revolution's utopian ideal. This issue has had the title-page rearranged with the first part of the title moved onto the half title, and the last four leaves were cancelled in order to remove an objectionable passage on marriage, in a vain attempt to appease the authorities. However, the book was not permitted to be brought into France and it was not allowed to be sold there.