CLARKSON (Thomas). Essay on the Political Disadvantages of the Slave Trade. Neufchâtel, 1789. — 8vo, 195 x 120: xxviij, 320 pp. Marbled calfskin, smooth spine with decoration, marbled edges (contemporary binding). First edition of the French translation of what is considered one of the abolitionist “Bibles,” written by Reverend Thomas Clarkson, who sought to demonstrate, with supporting evidence, all the disadvantages of the slave trade. The text is preceded by an excerpt from Clarkson’s work, titled: An Essay on Slavery & the Trade in Human Beings, & Particularly in Africans. The translation of the first essay is by Gramagnac, a physician and secretary of the Society of Friends of the Blacks, founded in 1788. The translation of the second essay is also attributed to Gramagnac, though some believe it may be by Jean-Louis Carra. The top margin is missing, and the corners are slightly worn. There is slight water staining on the upper edges of the last few folios starting from page 241. Provenance: Contemporary coat-of-arms bookplate. – Philippe Zoummeroff (auction of December 9, 2016, lot 143).