MICHAUD, J.F. (1767–1839) Istoriya krestovykh pokhodov [History of the Crusades]; trans. from the French by S.L. Kliatchko. Saint Petersburg; Moscow: M.O. Wolf, 1884. [4], 230, II pp.: ill., [32] plates; 32.5 x 26.5 cm. With 32 woodcuts outside the text after Gustave Doré and numerous vignettes within the text. Illustrated publisher’s cardboard binding in full percaline, with gilded and polychrome decoration. Coloured edges. Good condition. Slight wear to the binding, small tears in the percaline at the edges of the spine, a tear in the flyleaf, slight water stains at the edges of the book block, slight soiling, pre-revolutionary stamp and number. Joseph-François Michaud (1767–1839), a French historian originally from the Duchy of Savoy. In its day, the book was an innovative work in the spirit of Chateaubriand, extolling the Middle Ages; it pioneered the study of the Crusades. A deluxe edition in an elegant binding, featuring numerous illustrations by Gustave Doré (1832–1883), one of the most famous illustrators of the 19th century. First edition in Russian. At the buyer’s request, we shall be happy to provide a general report on the condition of the lot described above. However, as we are not professional conservators or restorers, we strongly advise potential buyers to carry out their own inspection or to consult a specialist of their choice to obtain a comprehensive assessment of the lot’s condition. Descriptions of items provided in the catalogue or by correspondence are for guidance only and should not be regarded as a definitive assessment. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSION REGARDING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD ‘AS IS’, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE PUBLISHED IN THE CATALOGUE.