MASCHERONI, LA GEOMETRIA DEL COMPASSO, PAVIA, 1797; AND A COPY OF THE FRENCH EDITION, 1798 (2)

La geometria del compasso. Pavia: heirs of Pietro Galeazzi, 1797, FIRST EDITION, 8vo (222 x 130mm.), 14 folding engraved plates, contemporary wrappers, uncut, (bought from Bernard Quaritch, London, 1989), occasional slight spotting, some damp-staining (heavier on pp.21-28), some wear to binding Géométrie du compas. Paris: Duprat, 1798, FIRST EDITION IN FRENCH, 8vo (196 x 120mm.), half-title, 14 folding engraved plates, 4pp. adverts at end, contemporary calf, spine gilt, (bought from Bernard Maille, Paris, 1995), occasional slight spotting, binding slightly worn

Tomash & Williams M56, M57; Riccardi ii, 133

the condition of this lot is as described in the catalogue description
"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."

First edition and first French edition of Mascheroni’s most important book, in which he proves that any geometrical construction that can be performed using ruler and compasses can be carried out by means of compasses alone.