[DIDEROT, Denis (1713-1784)]. Les Bijoux indiscrets. Au Monomotapa [but Paris, 1748].

First edition of Denis Diderot's orientalist sex comedy. This licentious romance is set at the court of "Mangogul, Sultan of Congo" (a thinly-veiled parody of Louis XV)—and even bears a false African imprint to complete the gag. The sultan is given a magic ring which enables women’s “jewels”—that is, their genitalia—to speak and share their owners’ amorous secrets. The sultan's mistress Mirzoza is based on Louis's real-life mistress Madame de Pompadour, who is given a flattering treatment as part of Diderot's efforts to woo her as a patron of his Encyclopedia. Cohen-de Ricci 303; Tchemerzine IV:430.

Two volumes, 12mo (161 x 97mm). 7 engraved plates, devices on titles (some occasional pale dampstaining in vol. 2). Contemporary French sprinkled calf (skillfully rebacked preserving original spines, morocco lettering-piece on vol. 2 renewed).