[MUSÉE DU LUXEMBOURG]. Explanation of the works of painting and sculpture of the École moderne de France, exhibited on 24 April 1818, in the Galerie royale du Luxembourg intended for living artists. Paris, P. Didot l'aîné, 1818. In-12, bradel blue paper boards, gilt fleur-de-lys lace, HS numeral in the centre surrounded by branches and a floral wreath, smooth threaded spine, smooth edges (Period binding). A very rare catalogue of the inaugural exhibition of the Musée du Luxembourg, printed on wove paper by Pierre Didot and sold in aid of the institution. The Musée du Luxembourg, founded in 1750, was the first French museum open to the public, initially exhibiting works by old masters, primarily Rubens, before these were transferred to the Louvre and in 1818, at the instigation of Louis XVIII, the Musée du Luxembourg became a "museum of living French artists", making it the first museum of contemporary art created in Europe. This guide accompanies the inaugural exhibition of the museum, which opened to the public on 24 April 1818. It offers visitors a description of 112 works of painting and sculpture, including 72 paintings by living French artists such as David (whose Le Serment des Horaces appears under no. 18), Girodet, Prudhon, Horace Vernet, etc., 17 paintings by old masters and 23 sculptures by Moitte, Delaistre, Pajou, Houdon and others. Charming hardback with the figure of a contemporary enthusiast, or more likely an amateur. Corners and headpieces slightly rubbed, rare scattered spotting.