Kircher, Athanasius | First edition of Kircher’s foundational treatise on magnetism

Kircher, Athanasius

Magnes sive de arte magnetica. Rome: Grignani, 1641

Three parts in one volume, 8vo (226 x 160 mm). Engraved title, 31 (of 32?) engraved plates, 1 volvelle, and numerous woodcuts in text; engraved title worn along gutter margin, several plates repaired, minor dampstaining to final leaves. Contemporary vellum; a little worn, endpapers renewed.

First edition of Kircher’s pioneering exploration of magnetism and its broader physical and metaphysical properties. Written while professor of mathematics at the Collegio Romano, the Magnes is one of the earliest systematic studies of magnetic attraction, repulsion, and polarity—extending these principles to electricity, astronomy, and even human relationships.

REFERENCES

Brunet III:667

PROVENANCE

Christie’s East, 16 November 1994, lot 127