4to; various paginations. 7 volumes in 8, with a total of 168 plates containing some 1,600 figures.

Edited by John Lowthorp, Henry Jones, John Eames and John Martyn. This set of abridgements contains many of the most important works of the scientific revolution, including microscopic discoveries, Newton’s work on optics, astronomical observations by Hevelius, Halley, Cassini, Flamsteed and others, Boyle’s researches into the nature of air, and countless other subjects.

Many volumes bear the imprimatur of Isaac Newton, who oversaw the project of abridgement. There are also copiously illustrated archaeological, geographic, botanical, physiological and geological papers.

The plates show the instruments and inventions characteristic of the era, notably including Newton’s reflecting telescope and Wilson’s pocket microscope.

Vol. V contains Father Kino’s famous map showing a land route to California, which ended the myth that the peninsula was an island.

This is a uniform set assembled in the eighteenth century from the following editions: Vols I–III, covering 1665–1700: fifth edition (1749); vols IV–V, covering 1700–1720: third edition (1749); VI–VII, covering 1719–1733: first edition (1734).

Generally very good condition: internally the collection is clean and bright throughout, with only occasional very light foxing; plates generally in excellent condition: one large panorama has been very neatly repaired where two separate sheets had come apart (though not torn); one plate in Vol. VI, Part 1 has a small (1cm) tear and some ruffling to one corner. The plates are very fine impressions. All figures run consecutively (though one plate is bound a few pages after its intended location) and the pagination is complete throughout. The bindings have been expertley restored (full leather restoration, retaining gilt spine decoration and adding new endpapers). The results is a pleasing set which is both attractive and easy to handle and read. Note that extra shipping charges will be necessary for this large set. Please contact us for further information, for more photographs.