- 65
Franklin, Benjamin
Estimate
8,000 - 12,000 USD
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Description
- paper
Experiments and Observations on Electricity, Made at Philadelphia in America ... To which are added, Letters and Papers on Philosophical Subjects. London: Printed for David Henry; and sold by Francis Newbery, 1769
4to (8 1/4 x 6 5/8 in.; 210 x 168 mm). Half-title, seven engraved plates (of which two are folding), woodcut text illustrations, headpiece and decorative initial; moderately browned, offset from plates, some mostly marginal spotting, plate 2 shaved at right edge. Modern calf, gilt-stamped red morocco title label on spine.
4to (8 1/4 x 6 5/8 in.; 210 x 168 mm). Half-title, seven engraved plates (of which two are folding), woodcut text illustrations, headpiece and decorative initial; moderately browned, offset from plates, some mostly marginal spotting, plate 2 shaved at right edge. Modern calf, gilt-stamped red morocco title label on spine.
Provenance
F.(?) Pye (contemporary signature in upper margin of title, shaved). Acquisition: MacManus Company
Literature
Ford 307; Howes F320; PMM 199; Sabin 25506
Condition
Half-title, seven engraved plates (of which two are folding), woodcut text illustrations, headpiece and decorative initial; moderately browned, offset from plates, some mostly marginal spotting. Modern calf, gilt-stamped red morocco title label on spine.
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.
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
First collected edition, "The most important scientific book of 18th century America" (PMM), containing complete notes on all the experiments, along with correspondence between Peter Collinson, Franklin, and other collaborators. Franklin began experimenting with electricity as early as 1745. This volume includes summaries of his work with Leyden jars, charged clouds and lightning rods, as well as his famous kite and key experiment.