Astruc - Conjectures sur les mémoires originaux - 1753

[ASTRUC, Jean]
Conjectures on the original memoirs of which it appears Moses used to compose the book of Genesis
Brussels, at Fricx, Printer to His Majesty, opposite the Church of the Madeleine, 1753 (M. DCC. LIII.)

Rare and principal edition of this pioneering work of modern biblical exegesis written by Jean Astruc (1684-1766), physician and royal professor. He posits the foundational hypothesis that Moses used different preexisting memoirs or documents (notably characterized by the alternating use of the names Elohim and Jehovah) to compose Genesis, thus laying the foundations of modern textual criticism.

Published in Brussels at Fricx in 1753, with privilege and approval, the same year as the original edition published in Paris.

Full antique marbled calf of the period, spine with raised bands richly adorned with gilt panels and a red title piece (“CONJECTURES SUR LA GENESIS”), borders of gilt tooling on the boards. Small signs of wear at the caps and corners, but the body of the volume is of great solidity.
Interior fresh, with light and scattered foxing, complete with the title and the detailed tables of chapters and preliminary reflections.

Fine copy of this foundational work.