Saint-Martin, le Philosophe Inconnu, sa vie et ses écrits.

Jacques Matter. Saint-Martin, le philosophe inconnu : sa vie et ses écrits, son maître Martinez et leurs groupes. 12mo, morocco spine with 4 raised bands, board covers. Speckled edges. Corners, joints and headcaps in good condition. Preface XI pp. + 460 pp. Some foxing inside, but a very satisfactory condition. A work by Jacques Matter, published in Paris in 1864 (second edition), devoted to Louis-Claude de Saint-Martin (1743–1803), known as « le Philosophe inconnu » (the Unknown Philosopher). This biographical and historical study traces the life, training and spiritual evolution of Saint-Martin, a major figure of French Christian mysticism of the 18th century. The author also examines the decisive influence of Martinez de Pasqually and the circles of the Élus Coëns on Saint-Martin's thought, as well as the birth of the Martinist currents. Drawing on documents and testimonies of his time, Matter offers an erudite analysis of his subject's intellectual and mystical journey, highlighting his passage from an initiatory theurgy towards an inner, contemplative spirituality. In Strasbourg, where he stayed for about a year (around 1788–1789), Saint-Martin moved away from initiatory circles to turn towards a more inward mysticism. This period marks a turning point towards a spirituality centred on the soul's direct relationship with God. Considered one of the first great reference biographies of Saint-Martin, this work remains an important source for the study of esotericism and mystical thought in France in the 18th century.