[HELVETICA]. [RUCHAT (Abraham)]. État et délices de la Suisse, ou description historique et géographique des treize cantons suisses et de leurs alliés... Neuchâtel, Samuel Fauche, 1778. 2 vol. in-4° bound full marbled fawn calf, spines with gilt and ornamented bands (period binding). Vol.1: [2] ff, IV, 454 pp, [1] f., Vol.2: [2] ff, 392 pp. With 81 plates out of text. 4th edition, the most sought-after and only large-format edition, combining the original text by Waldensian historian Ruchat with significant contributions and additions by other authors. A fine copy of a work renowned for its rich iconography and the quality of its engravings. The plates provide detailed representations of the Swiss cantons, their towns and landscapes, reflecting the growing interest in Switzerland in the eighteenth century. Good condition despite some slightly foxed leaves and engravings. It would appear that the work was washed in the 19th century and then rebound (in its original binding' ) Binding: Good condition Some minor spotting on boards and along spine ends Mottling on the 2 lower covers Small isolated wormholes along the upper spine of T1 Inside pages: Text pages very clean, except for a few slightly foxed leaves. The plates have all been bound at the beginning of the book: 39 in volume 1 and 42 in volume 2, and are not arranged according to the binder's instructions Several plates a little foxed Traces of wetness in the margins of some plates