Mydorge, Claude | Prodromi catoptricorum et dioptricorum, Paris, 1641, contemporary calf

Mydorge, Claude

Prodromi catoptricorum et dioptricorum. Paris: ex typographia Isaac Dedin, 1641

Second edition of all four books of Prodromi, Mydorge's expanded work on conic sections.

The first publication of Prodomi, published ten years prior to the present work, featured the first use of the word “parameter” in reference to conic sections. This continuation of Apollonius’ work on conics was intended to simplify and refine—providing geometric foundations for Newton amongst others in the following years. 

Originally pursuing a legal career, Mydroge served as the treasurer of the generalite of Amiens, and pursued his mathematical studies in his free time. His familial status and wealth would in part allow him to furnish this passion, particularly in the study of conics where a particular order of custom-made parabolic, hyperbolic, elliptic cost over 100,000 écus. 

4 vols in 1, folio (251 x 210 mm). Woodcut printer's device on title, woodcut diagrams and initials; title soiled, leaves browned, scattered spots, some notations in black ink, few leaves with marginal loss never affecting text, small singe-hole to L touching two letters, first gathering slightly detached,marginal toning. Contemporary calf, brown morocco spine label gilt-lettered, spine in six compartments and semi-raised bands; boards rebacked and worn, edges dust-soiled.

REFERENCES

Baillet II; DSB IV 598; USTC 600464

PROVENANCE

Dr. Ed Pergens (stamp to title, possibly Dr. Eduard Pergens, Belgian ) — Robert S. Dunham (inscription to front pastedown 1962; sold at Sothebys, 11 December, 1993, lot 723 part)