Ortigue de Vaumorière - L'Art de plaire dans la conversation - 1690

The Art of Pleasing in Conversation is a treatise on savoir-vivre and fashionable eloquence written by Pierre d'Ortigue de Vaumorière, published for the first time in Paris with Jean Guignard in 1688 and then reissued in 1690. The work embodies the ideal of civility and sociability in seventeenth-century France. In Paris, at Jean Guignard, 1690 - 432 pages, (18) ff - Full calfskin binding of the period - in-12 - 8.5 x 14.5 cm.

State: Top cap missing, spine in good condition, hinges solid, 3 corners nicked, spine with raised bands ornamented by gilt fleurons and the title piece in garnet morocco, some foxing and browning, speckled edges. Aside from the noted defects, a correct copy of this rare work.

Contents :

• Measure and balance: Avoid excesses of speech, pedantry, or a tone too peremptory to privilege attentive listening.

• Adaptation to the interlocutor: Know how to modulate one's remarks according to the status, mood, and character of the person addressed.

• Naturalness and grace: Reject forced affectation; true distinction rests on apparent ease and modesty.

• Avoidance of troublesome topics: Ward off quarrels, excessive confidences, complaints, and anything that could embroil the company in boredom or discomfort.