Hooke, Robert | An Attempt to Prove the Motion of the Earth from Observations, London, 1674, George Tollet's copy

Hooke, Robert

An Attempt to Prove the Motion of the Earth from Observations. London: T. R[oycroft] for John Martyn, 1674

First edition of Hooke's defence of Copernicus. This work's pioneering contention that "orbital motion did not depend on centrifugal force but rather on the principle of rectilinear inertia … set Newton on the correct path to understanding orbital dynamics" (Norman).

This copy has interesting early provenance, containing the bookplate of George Tollet, founder member of the Dublin Philosophical Society. Tollet, educated at Trinity College, Cambridge, corresponded with both Samuel Pepys and John Evelyn. Tollet is also notable for having given scientific training to one of his daughters. His books were bequeathed to his eldest son (also named George) and sold at auction in June 1726 (Pearson).

4to (203 x 156 mm). Engraved folding plate, woodcut headpieces and initials; title-page soiled. Modern half morocco over marbled boards.

REFERENCES

ESTC R11231; Keynes, Hooke 16; Norman 1093; Wing H-261; David Pearson, "George Tollet d.1719," Book Owners Online, accessed 8 September 2026

PROVENANCE

George Tollet (d.1719, founder member of the Dublin Philosophical Society; engraved armorial bookplate to verso of title) — Robert S. Dunham (acquired from Dawson in May 1956, pencil acquisition note to front pastedown)