4to (248 x 190 mm). 15 copperplate engraved folding plates. (Small pale spots to a few leaves.) Contemporary calf-backed marbled boards, edges sprinkled red, black morocco lettering-piece gilt (joints starting, some light wear).

FIRST EDITION of Le Monnier's best-known work, the first important general manual of astronomy in France.  The framework of the Institutions Astronomiques was essentially a translation of John Keill's Introduciton ad vera Astronomic (London, 1731), but Le Monnier included important additions and new tables of the sun and moon.  Houzeau & Lancaster 9244.