La Guérinière, François Robichon de

Ecole de cavalerie contenant la connaissance, l'instruction et la conservation du cheval. Paris: de l'Imprimerie de Jacques Collombat, 1733



Folio (16 5/8 x 10 ¾ in.; 422 x 274 mm). Woodcut device on title, engraved title by L. Cars after Charles Parrocel, 15 engraved plates and 8 full-page engraved text illustrations by Coquart, Aveline, Audran, Tardieu and Dupis and Parrocel, 3 large engraved head- and tail-pieces; occasional marginal spotting and soiling, marginal dampstain in last few leaves, 3 plates shaved at lower edge affecting captions, last plate with mended tear. Early 19^{th-century tree calf, gilt roll-tooled border, spine gilt; edges and corners rubbed, upper joint cracking, covers rubbed with some scuff marks.}

Huth 31; Mennessier 2:27; Nissen, ZBI 2361

Folio (16 5/8 x 10 ¾ in.; 422 x 274 mm). Woodcut device on title, engraved title by L. Cars after Charles Parrocel, 15 engraved plates and 8 full-page engraved text illustrations by Coquart, Aveline, Audran, Tardieu and Dupis and Parrocel, 3 large engraved head- and tail-pieces; occasional marginal spotting and soiling, marginal dampstain in last few leaves, 3 plates shaved at lower edge affecting captions, last plate with mended tear. Early 19th-century tree calf, gilt roll-tooled border, spine gilt; edges and corners rubbed, upper joint cracking, covers rubbed with some scuff marks.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

First edition of this cornerstone of modern dressage, superbly illustrated by Charles Parrocel. La Guérinière's work is still considered the fundamental text of the Spanish Riding School of Vienna. In 1715, the author was awarded the title Ecuyer du Roi which entitled him to teach riding. In 1730, Prince Charles of Lorraine appointed him director of the Royal Stables at the Tuileries, which were founded by Antoine Pluvinel.

The work consists of three sections: knowledge of the horse, training, and veterinary medicine. The training section covers all aspects of horsemanship pertinent to the 18th century including serious matters such as war, hunting and coaching, and of training for sport including tournaments, jousting and carousels. In addition to six fine equestrian portraits, the engravings include illustrations of dressage, tack, shoes, and anatomy.