1587 Discours Politiques et Militaires, Francois de LA NOUE, Military Strategy

Description

Extremely rare first edition in what appears to be original binding from 1587.
Translated title page: "
Political and Military Discourses of the Lord of La Noue. Newly Collected & Brought to Light."
This is a famous military work by François de La Noue Briord (1531-1591), a
Huguenot captain in the French Wars of Religion (1562–98), known for his exploits as a soldier and for his military and historical writings. He was
nicknamed "
Bras-de-Fer
" ("Arm of Iron") because his left arm was amputated in the siege of Fontenay in 1570 and replaced by an iron device. He was also called "Bayard Huguenot," due to his bravery in the service of the Protestant cause.
He was prisoner of the Spaniards in the 1580s at the castle of Limburg, d
uring which time
he wrote this famous historical work. Based on his experiences, it provides an accurate analysis of the political situation in France at the time. He advocates a policy of tolerance while demonstrating his faith in action. It also presents an in-depth study of military art and strategy. Napoleon held this work in very high esteem, even calling it the "Soldier's Bible."
Please see photos for condition. First few and last few pages have folds (mostly corners), and some small rips, tears. Back cover has lower corner torn. Age-toning, staining of pages. Cover is lifting off at bottom threads, but is surprisingly tight at top. Binding of pages is secure. There are signatures and writings made over the 430+ years of ownership of this book.
Very few copies of this first edition exist, let alone become available. One sold at a 2009 Christie's auction in Paris for ,344.
Approximately 9-1/2" x 7" x 2-1/4" thick