- 161
[Mechanics]
Estimate
2,000 - 3,000 GBP
bidding is closed
Description
- Practical Mechanics, manuscript in English, 175 pages, plus an additional 6 pages loose, with 24 pen, ink and wash illustrative drawings (8 full page), 4to (196 x 160mm), contemporary stiff vellum covers labelled "Mechanics | 1790", the loose leaves strengthened with clear plastic, damage to head of spine
- ink on paper
An attractively-written and finely illustrated advanced summary of mechanical theory, "that branch of Practical mathematics which considers motion and moving powers". The manuscript is divided into sections with headings that provide a useful summary of the subjects covered: of the mechanical powers, a common mill, hydrostatical principles, hydrostatic and hydraulic machines, the forcing pump, the principles on which the fire-engine is constructed, of friction, descent of bodies, a quadruple pump-mill for raising water, to gauge a ship, the planetarium, optics, the solar or camera obscura microscope, theory of the motion of rivers, of the running of water, and miscellanies.
Provenance
Sold in these rooms ("Property of a Gentleman resident in New York"), 5 March 1963, lot 291, to John D. Stanitz; his sale, Sotheby's, New York, 25 April 1984, lot 296
Condition
Condition is described in the main body of the catalogue, where appropriate
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."