New Design for Lavarin or Raab. Mallet Fortifications c1684.

by Mallet, Alain Manesson

Lavarin or Raab, on the Danube, antique print by Mallet c1684 (later colour).

Alain Manesson Mallet (1630-1706), studied mathematics and geometry at the College of Burgundy, under the military engineer, Philippe Mallet (1606-1679). A.M. Mallet then became a musketeer in the regiment of guards of Louis XIV. In 1663 he left for Portugal to enter the service of Alfonso VI. Under Marshal Schomberg Mallet served as an engineer and rose to the rank of sargento-mor (equivalent to commander) of artillery and inspector of fortifications. After the signing of the Treaty of Independence between Spain and Portugal, Mallet returned to France. He was appointed mathematics teacher of the pages of the King in Little Stable, Versailles (reserved for the sons of the noble families dating back to 1550 or earlier).

As master of mathematics Mallet had time to write. In 1671 his first publication was on military science and the art of siege warfare. It was so successful that it was translated into German the following year. In 1684 Mallet published his updated work Travaux de Mars, ou l’Art de la Guerre, “on observations I’ve made on the art of war”, with engraved diagrams for the fortifications of cities and towns throughout Europe, and small scenes “to inspire young nobles to learn to draw, because in fortifications, drawing is not simply a noble propriety, but an absolute necessity”.

Approximate size 21 x 14 cm (10.25 x 8.25 inches). This fine copperplate engraving has later colour, and is mounted between antique white conservation ragmat board and covered with cellophane for presentation and protection until framed. External measurement for frame window is 300 x 255mm. (Less $30 for antique print only. Please email for price adjustment.)