A Dictionary of Chemistry and Mineralogy, with an account of the processes employed in many of the most important chemical manufactures. To which are added a description of chemical apparatus, and various useful tables of weights and measures, chemical instruments, &c. &c. Vol. I-II

Description:

First edition, with the Appendix (An Account of the Most Important Recent Discoveries and Improvements in Chemistry and Mineralogy, to the present time), dated 1814, at rear of each volume. Engraved plates 1-15, plus one unnumbered plate. Plate 10, bound as a frontispiece, show, 'Arrangement of the Furnaces in Mr Pepys's Laboratory.' [William Haseldine Pepys (1775-1856)]. Scarce.

The authors, Arthur Aikin (1773-1854) and Charles Rochemont Aikin (1775-1847), were brothers. Arthur was an eminent English chemist, mineralogist, and founding member of the Chemical Society, he studied under Joseph Priestley. Charles was a medical doctor and chemist. This two-volume work served as a comprehensive reference for early 19th-century chemistry and mineralogy, providing a detailed examination of chemical processes, apparatus, and measurements, reflecting the period's burgeoning industrial and scientific advancements. Notable for its extensive coverage of chemical manufacturing processes and its inclusion of key recent discoveries, this dictionary highlights the evolving understanding of chemistry during the Industrial Revolution. It also provides a valuable historical insight into the tools and methodologies of early chemists. An important reference for chemists, historians of science, and collectors of early scientific works.

Condition

2 vols, large 4to (274x218mm), later, 20th century half calf (St Michael's Abbey, 1979), raised bands to spine, gilt rules and titles, marbled boards. Very occasional light foxing, otherwise clean and bright. Short tear to outer margin of leaf 3a in Vol. I. Very minor damage to outer margin of Appendix leaves in Vol. II. Withdrawn from the Mineralogy Library, British Museum (Natural History), with small neat ink stamps to verso of title pages only. Very good.