78-COLBERT (Jean-Baptiste). Letters, instructions and memoirs. Pub. d'après les ordres de l'Empereur par Pierre Clément. Paris, Imprimerie Impériale, 1861-1882, 8 volumes in 10 vols. in-4, half havana morocco, decorated ribbed spine, arms on spine, gilt head (E. Bouché). Colossal publication of the papers of the Grand Colbert from 1650 to 1682. A specialist of the Grand Siècle, Pierre Clément has provided his work with a remarkable critical apparatus - an important introduction, chronology, notes and index - and has classified it by subject, making it easy to consult. Very rare complete with index volume published 9 years after the end of the series. An exceptional copy bearing the Colbert coat of arms.