KARAMZIN, Nikolai. History of the Russian Empire. - Lot 218

KARAMZIN, Nikolai. History of the Russian Empire. A comprehensive history of the Russian Empire by the court historian and advisor to Alexander I. A beautiful set in good period bindings. Paris, Belin and Bossonage père (for volumes IX, X, and XI), 1819–1826. 11 in-8 volumes, each bound in marbled full calfskin, with smooth, richly decorated spines, title and volume number labels in red sheepskin, gilt scrolls framing the covers, gilt fillet on the edges, and marbled edges. Approximately 400 pages per volume (uncollated), a fold-out map in the first volume, 9 fold-out genealogical tables. Some normal wear and tear, two upper caps worn down (volumes 7 and 11), a few foxing spots. First edition of the French translation by Messrs. St.-Thomas and Jauffret, dedicated to Alexander I, Emperor of All Russia. Ex-libris bearing the initials “E.S.” with a Legion of Honor medal. Nikolai Karamzin (1766–1826), a Russian writer and historian, first published stories and novels inspired by his extensive travels. His *History of the Russian Empire*, a monumental work based on several years of research and study, was his first publication as a historian. With a certain ideological patriotism, it traces the history of Russia from its origins to the end of the reign of John IV (Ivan the Terrible) and the accession of the Romanov dynasty. It was an overnight success. Kamarzine was appointed Russia’s official historiographer and became an advisor to Alexander I. A fine copy, well-bound, complete with its map and nine genealogical tables. Rare.