Fer, Introduction a la fortification, Paris, 1705, contemporary calf

FER, NICOLAS DE

Introduction à la fortification. Paris: the author, 1705

oblong folio (281 x 402mm.), engraved list of contents (with date of publication), engraved title-page, 194 engraved maps, text leaves and plates (2 folding), contemporary calf, first few leaves creased, binding slightly rubbed, joints cracked; a composite atlas sold not subject to return

De Fer's atlas of fortifications comprises engineering calculations, plans of fortresses (both theoretical and real) and fortified towns, and views and maps of forts and the surrounding areas. The geographical spread is across France but also including the Low Countries, Spain and Italy, as well as a few plates depicting Constantinople and the New World. It was first published in 1690 in eight parts.

LITERATURE:

Pastoureau, Fer IX C

PROVENANCE:

Thomas Francis Fremantle, armorial bookplate