Satirical critique of human folly in 1792

Description

By DU LAURENS (Henri-Joseph). 'Le compère Mathieu, ou les bigarrures de l'esprit humain' (New edition, adorned with fine illustrations). Published in Malta by the Grand Master's expense, 1792. Small 16mo format. Original binding preserved. 179 & 156 pages, Vol. I & II. Missing part of the second volume's table. Occasional faint stains. With abundant imagination and excess, Du Laurens mocks Freemasons, Jesuits, ridiculous beliefs, and manias, targeting both Philosophy and religious abuses. The work caused a scandal and was condemned for offending public and religious morals.