Reflections on the Revolution in France, and on the Proceedings in Certain Societies in London Relative to That Event. In a Letter Intended to have been Sent to a Gentleman in Paris
London: J. Dodsley, 1790. Second Edition, Second Impression. Octavo, iv, 356 pages, finely bound in three-quarter red morocco over marbled boards. Signed by the binder, “Bound by Tout & Sons.” Spine with ornate gilt lettering and decoration; boards ruled in gilt; top edge gilt; marbled endpapers; permanent red silk placemarker. Edmund Burke’s Reflections on the Revolution in France is one of the most influential political works of the eighteenth century and a foundational text of modern conservatism. Written in response to the early events of the French Revolution and to pro-revolutionary sentiment among certain reform societies in London, Burke’s work argues against abstract political theory, sudden constitutional rupture, and the destruction of inherited institutions. Instead, he defends monarchy, aristocracy, religion, property, precedent, and gradual reform as stabilizing forces within civil society. First published in 1790, the book quickly became a major intervention in British and European political debate, provoking famous responses from writers such as Thomas Paine and Mary Wollstonecraft. This early second edition preserves the immediacy of Burke’s reaction to the Revolution at the moment when its meaning and consequences were still being fiercely contested. Some minor rubbing and wear to the hinges. Bound without the half-title, if issued with one, else in very good + condition. Item #363
Price: $1,000.00