Académie Universelle Des Jeux, 1765

Originally published in 1718, L'Académie Universelle des Jeux (“The Universal Academy of Games”) became the definitive French reference on games of skill and chance throughout the 18th century. The book was revised and republished multiple times, reflecting its enduring popularity in Enlightenment society. This particular edition, from 1765, is especially prized for its inclusion of updated rules and strategic commentary.

The volume covers a wide range of games — including cards, draughts, backgammon, and most notably, chess. The chess section is attributed to François-André Danican Philidor, the foremost chess master of his time. Philidor revolutionized the game with his emphasis on positional play and the central role of pawns, famously stating: “Les pions sont l’âme des échecs” (“The pawns are the soul of chess”).

The preface to the chess section opens with an elegant homage to the game’s intellectual demands:

"Parmi les jeux qui exigent l’exercice de l’esprit, les Échecs tiennent le premier rang. Ils demandent une attention soutenue, une combinaison fine, & une prévoyance constante..."

“Among the games that demand the exercise of the mind, Chess holds the highest rank. It requires sustained attention, subtle calculation, and constant foresight…”

This edition of L'Académie Universelle des Jeux not only preserves the strategic teachings of Philidor but also captures the refined cultural status chess held in 18th-century France — a true meeting point of intellect, elegance, and social grace. The second volume carries a bookplate indicating this was from the library of a priest named Rosset.

The set is pictured with an 18th century English playing set, which would have been very familiar to Philidor from his time playing in England.