(Lot of 18) Antique French Methodical Encyclopedias
A wonderful collection of antique tattered French books discovered in France, representing The Encyclopédie méthodique par ordre des matières ("Methodical Encyclopedia by Order of Subject Matter"), a major French reference work published between 1782 and 1832. Conceived by publisher Charles Joseph Panckoucke as a more systematic alternative to Diderot and d'Alembert’s Encyclopédie, it was arranged by subject rather than alphabetically, allowing for in-depth study of specific fields.
Spanning a total of 210–216 volumes, the project continued under Panckoucke’s successors, Henri Agasse and Thérèse-Charlotte Agasse, after his death. It covered disciplines such as philosophy, medicine, law, and the arts, featuring contributions from leading scholars of the time. A universal vocabulary served as an index to the entire work.
Reflecting Enlightenment ideals of knowledge and organization, the Encyclopédie méthodique influenced later encyclopedic projects. Though its decades-long publication led to some outdated content, it remains a landmark in the history of reference works.
These old books are not just literary works but physical embodiments of a critical period in European history. Made from linen and cotton-based paper, they are far more durable than today’s wood pulp books, giving them a unique texture and remarkable longevity.
Today, these books are sought after not only for their intellectual content but also for their aesthetic appeal. Their softened, timeworn pages and tattered, enduring appearance offer a tangible connection to the past, making them treasured pieces for collectors.
As decor, this set transcends mere functionality. Whether displayed on a shelf or as part of a vignette, these timeworn volumes can transform any space with their faded patina, blending seamlessly into contemporary settings while offering a subtle nod to the intellectual depth and aesthetic sensibilities of the past.
Found in France, circa 1782 - 1806
The encyclopedias are sold as a set of 18 books (3 large and 15 small)
Books are tattered and show signs of wear, bearing tears to the covers and light staining
Overall condition is consistent with age and use
The set of books measures approximately 30.125” W x 8.625” D x 10.875” H when standing in a row together
Books range in thickness from approximately 1.375” D for the smallest - 2.75” D for the largest
Free nationwide shipping is included in the product price.
Request a trade discount here.
A wonderful collection of antique tattered French books discovered in France, representing The Encyclopédie méthodique par ordre des matières ("Methodical Encyclopedia by Order of Subject Matter"), a major French reference work published between 1782 and 1832. Conceived by publisher Charles Joseph Panckoucke as a more systematic alternative to Diderot and d'Alembert’s Encyclopédie, it was arranged by subject rather than alphabetically, allowing for in-depth study of specific fields.
Spanning a total of 210–216 volumes, the project continued under Panckoucke’s successors, Henri Agasse and Thérèse-Charlotte Agasse, after his death. It covered disciplines such as philosophy, medicine, law, and the arts, featuring contributions from leading scholars of the time. A universal vocabulary served as an index to the entire work.
Reflecting Enlightenment ideals of knowledge and organization, the Encyclopédie méthodique influenced later encyclopedic projects. Though its decades-long publication led to some outdated content, it remains a landmark in the history of reference works.
These old books are not just literary works but physical embodiments of a critical period in European history. Made from linen and cotton-based paper, they are far more durable than today’s wood pulp books, giving them a unique texture and remarkable longevity.
Today, these books are sought after not only for their intellectual content but also for their aesthetic appeal. Their softened, timeworn pages and tattered, enduring appearance offer a tangible connection to the past, making them treasured pieces for collectors.
As decor, this set transcends mere functionality. Whether displayed on a shelf or as part of a vignette, these timeworn volumes can transform any space with their faded patina, blending seamlessly into contemporary settings while offering a subtle nod to the intellectual depth and aesthetic sensibilities of the past.
Found in France, circa 1782 - 1806
The encyclopedias are sold as a set of 18 books (3 large and 15 small)
Books are tattered and show signs of wear, bearing tears to the covers and light staining
Overall condition is consistent with age and use
The set of books measures approximately 30.125” W x 8.625” D x 10.875” H when standing in a row together
Books range in thickness from approximately 1.375” D for the smallest - 2.75” D for the largest
Free nationwide shipping is included in the product price.
Request a trade discount here.
A wonderful collection of antique tattered French books discovered in France, representing The Encyclopédie méthodique par ordre des matières ("Methodical Encyclopedia by Order of Subject Matter"), a major French reference work published between 1782 and 1832. Conceived by publisher Charles Joseph Panckoucke as a more systematic alternative to Diderot and d'Alembert’s Encyclopédie, it was arranged by subject rather than alphabetically, allowing for in-depth study of specific fields.
Spanning a total of 210–216 volumes, the project continued under Panckoucke’s successors, Henri Agasse and Thérèse-Charlotte Agasse, after his death. It covered disciplines such as philosophy, medicine, law, and the arts, featuring contributions from leading scholars of the time. A universal vocabulary served as an index to the entire work.
Reflecting Enlightenment ideals of knowledge and organization, the Encyclopédie méthodique influenced later encyclopedic projects. Though its decades-long publication led to some outdated content, it remains a landmark in the history of reference works.
These old books are not just literary works but physical embodiments of a critical period in European history. Made from linen and cotton-based paper, they are far more durable than today’s wood pulp books, giving them a unique texture and remarkable longevity.
Today, these books are sought after not only for their intellectual content but also for their aesthetic appeal. Their softened, timeworn pages and tattered, enduring appearance offer a tangible connection to the past, making them treasured pieces for collectors.
As decor, this set transcends mere functionality. Whether displayed on a shelf or as part of a vignette, these timeworn volumes can transform any space with their faded patina, blending seamlessly into contemporary settings while offering a subtle nod to the intellectual depth and aesthetic sensibilities of the past.
Found in France, circa 1782 - 1806
The encyclopedias are sold as a set of 18 books (3 large and 15 small)
Books are tattered and show signs of wear, bearing tears to the covers and light staining
Overall condition is consistent with age and use
The set of books measures approximately 30.125” W x 8.625” D x 10.875” H when standing in a row together
Books range in thickness from approximately 1.375” D for the smallest - 2.75” D for the largest
Free nationwide shipping is included in the product price.
Request a trade discount here.