Boerhaave, Herman | Institutiones et experimenta chemiae, the 1724 unauthorized edition

Boerhaave, Herman

Institutiones et experimenta chemiae. Paris [Leiden?]: [n.p.], 1724

2 volumes in one, 8vo (158 x 95 mm). Engraved folding plate and one engraved illustration in text; primarily marginal foxing throughout, some leaves toned, a few stray stains, p. 42 and 43 in volume 2 mispaginated. Contemporary vellum over boards, edges sprinkled red, spine manuscript ink lettered; a few stains to covers and spine, minor wear. 

An unauthorized edition published without the author’s knowledge, eight years prior to the authorized first edition of Elementa chemiae (1732).

The Norman copy.

Boerhaave was so incensed by the publication of this spurious edition that in the Leydische Courant on 9 October 1726, he published a warning against booksellers selling the work, and two weeks later requested that the academic Senate help protect against further abuses of his notes. In response, all copies of the authorized edition, the 1732 Elementa chemiae, bore Boerhaave’s autograph signature so as to attest to their authenticity (Norman). The unauthorized edition, though bearing a Paris imprint, was likely published or at least prepared in Leiden (Duveen).

REFERENCES

Duveen p. 83-84; Norman 257, this copy

PROVENANCE

Haskell F. Norman (bookplate to upper pastedown; Christie’s New York, 15 June 1998, lot 304)