MÈGE (Jean-Baptiste). Alliance d'Hygie et de la beauté, ou l'art d'embellir, d'après les principes de la physiologie; précédé d'un discours sur les caractères physiques et moraux de la femme, ses prrogatives et ses devoirs; et sur les mœurs et les coutumes des anciens. Paris : Crochard, Delaunay, the author, 1818. - In-12, 160 x 97 : (1 f.) on 2 (mq the title), ij, 244 pp., (1 f.). Red morocco, gilt border and gilt arms in the centre of the boards, smooth spine decorated, gilt border inside, gilt edges (period binding). Rare first edition of this work which at the time had a great success with women of all ranks. It was written by the doctor Jean-Baptiste Mège who proposes not only a history of beauty but above all a complete guide to feminine conduct, a true manual defining the practices of beautification and behaviour. The author favours hygiene and natural beauty over fantasy and vanity. Despite some criticism, here is what the Journal complémentaire du dictionaire (sic) des sciences médicales had to say in 1820, on the occasion of the publication of the second edition of the text: "this work seems to us to be the best we have on the use of cosmetics, which is so widespread. The author, instead of lulling women, who are excessively credulous when it comes to their charms, with chimerical hopes, has the courage to give them severe and wise advice, which many will undoubtedly not follow, but which sensible people will know how to appreciate at their true value, and which will serve to distinguish M. Mége from a multitude of charlatans who have written on the same subject" (Journal complémentaire du dictionaire (sic) des sciences médicales, tome 8, 1820, p. 93) The themes treated by the author are multiple. He deals with physical properties, skin functions, make-up, tattoos, obesity, cosmetics for the hair, ears and eyes, as well as physical education related to beauty, gestures, singing and music, declamation, and dancing. A precious copy in contemporary morocco, with the arms of Emperor Alexander I of Russia (1777-1825). Later black highlights on the arms and the quatrefoils on the spine. Missing the title.