MAURY (Arthur). The emblems and flags of France. Le Coq gaulois. Paris : Arthur Maury, [1904]. - In-8, red morocco, triple gilt fillet framing the boards, gilt mosaic coat of arms of the French Republic in the upper right-hand corner of the first board, gilt plaque in the center of the second board, featuring a rooster on a disk with numerous circular stripes and holding a banner bearing "République française", ornate ribbed spine, gilt lace framing the inside, gilt edges (period binding). First edition of this historical summary of the emblems of France, written by Arthur Maury (1844-1907). In 1892, Arthur Maury proposed the Gallic cockerel as the national emblem, believing that this symbol, rooted in tradition and history, would take root naturally. Faced with critics who reduced it to a symbol of the July monarchy, he led a press campaign that resulted in its adoption on coins and at the Élysée Palace. To counter his opponents, he published this work, in which he offers a unique collection of documents (engravings, medals, arms, etc.), proving the historical legitimacy of the cockerel. Lavishly illustrated and well-argued, his book aimed to make the rooster the official symbol of France, while correcting historical errors such as the origin of the white flag, often misattributed to Henri IV. PRECIOUS EXEMPLAIRE OFFERED TO PRESIDENT ÉMILE LOUBET (1838-1929), with a printed leaf added at the head stating: "To Monsieur Émile Loubet President of the French Republic. Respectful homage from the author Arthur Maury." A very fine copy. Some light wear. Small blow to the edge of the second plate. A few scattered brown spots.