SMEATON, A NARRATIVE OF THE BUILDING AND A DESCRIPTION OF THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE EDYSTONE LIGHTHOUSE WITH STONE, 1791

FIRST EDITION, folio (530 x 363mm.), engraved title illustration, dedication, 23 engraved charts and plates (one folding), contemporary diced russia, small tear to folding map, slight occasional spotting, upper cover detached, rubbed

ESTC T107557

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."

Smeaton's stone lighthouse, perhaps his most memorable and greatest work, was begun in 1756 and completed in 1759. Smeaton was the first engineer to use dovetailed joints to fasten the stones, which averaged 1 ton in weight, in a lighthouse structure. The tower remained in operation for over 100 years, and it was not until 1877, owing to the undermining of the rock on which the tower was built and the insufficient height of the structure, that the decision to replace the lighthouse was taken.