- 18
Faraday, Michael
Description
- paper and ink
4to (11 5/8 x 9 1/4 in.; 296 x 233 mm, uncut ). 2 engraved plates comprising 39 figures; title-page soiled and skilfully restored about the edges. Original blue wrappers; upper wrapper spotted and faded, some offsetting from Garden morocco ticket. Quarter blue morocco folding-case.
Provenance
Literature
Condition
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
Catalogue Note
The Garden copy, of the first printing, first issue, of the earliest account of electro-magnetic induction, which remains the means of generating nearly all electricity. Presentation copy, inscribed "M. Despretz | & & & | from the author" with Depretz's name repeated on the front wrapper in the author's hand.
In 1831, after successfully inducing one electrical current by another, Faraday began his famous series of thirty Experimental Researches in Electricity. One of the finest experimental physicists of his time, he investigated electromagnetisim, electrochemistry, and electrostatics, to a point where he verged on the brink of field theory, the electron theory of matter, and the electromagnetic theory of light.
This issue is an offprint from the Philosophical Transactions, with an added title-leaf and with the first four pages (125–128) reimposed on one half-sheet. Very likely all copies of the offprint were intended for presentation. It is the only separate issue of Faraday's greatest work, a classic of physics, and a cornerstone of all electrical engineering.