Hausmann, Johann Friedrich Ludwig | Hausmann's ambitious study of the laws of crystal growth

Hausmann, Johann Friedrich Ludwig

Untersuchungen über die Formen der leblosen Natur. Erster Band [all published]. Göttingen: Vandenhoeck und Ruprecht, 1821

4to (248 x 203 mm). 16 engraved plates; plates extended. Contemporary green paper boards, gilt morocco lettering-piece; extremities rubbed, restored overall.

Only edition of Hausmann’s ambitious and visually striking study of crystallography and the geometric laws governing the growth of inorganic forms. The plates present a systematic attempt to classify crystal structures by symmetry and proportion, anticipating later mineralogical models. Scarce, and little known to Anglo-American bibliographers.

REFERENCES

Poggendorff I, 1035–37; cf. Sinkankas, p. 450; Zittel, p. 118

PROVENANCE

Early inscription to title — Joseph A. Freilich (booklabel; Sotheby’s New York, 10 January 2001, lot 228)