Euler, Leonhard | Methodus inveniendi lineas curvas maximi minimive proprietate gaudentes, Lausanne and Geneva, 1744, first edition

Euler, Leonhard

Methodus inveniendi lineas curvas maximi minimive proprietate gaudentes. Lausanne and Geneva: Marc-Michel Bousquet, 1744

First edition of a work presenting a new branch of mathematics—Eugène Rouché's copy.

Euler's calculus of variations was derived from his studies of isoperimetrical curves, which provided simple formulae applicable to a wide variety of problems. The manuscript was ready by April 1743 and was with the printer by the autumn of that year.

Notably, the present copy bears the ownership inscription of the French geometer Eugène Rouché, best known for his theorem on complex functions.

4to (235 x 185). Title-page printed in red and black with engraved vignette, engraved headpieces and initials, five folding engraved plates at end; erased ownership inscription on title, occasional and faint browning, scattered spotting heaviest to final plate. Contemporary mottled sheep gilt, edges stained red, marbled endpapers; spine defective with loss, upper board nearly detached, some rubbing to extremities.

REFERENCES

Enestroem 65; Dibner 111; Horblit 28; Norman 731

PROVENANCE

Eugène Rouché, French mathematician (ownership inscription)