De l’Électrisation Localisée et de son Application à la Pathologie et à la Thérapeutique
Paris: J.-B. Baillière et Fils, 1861. The lithographic plate is by Lemercier et Cie., after Duchenne’s anatomical studies. Second edition. Contemporary quarter leather with gilt bands and titles on the spine; marbled paper boards and endpapers.
A monumental work in the history of medicine, G.-B. Duchenne’s De l’Électrisation Localisée (1861) marks one of the earliest systematic studies of neuromuscular physiology through electrical experimentation. In this groundbreaking second edition—entirely revised and expanded—Duchenne de Boulogne refines his pioneering method of localized electrization, applying it both diagnostically and therapeutically to paralysis, muscular atrophy, and nervous disorders. Through meticulous experimentation, Duchenne demonstrated how electricity could be used to isolate and stimulate individual muscle groups, effectively mapping the human body’s neuromuscular responses. His work was foundational in establishing the discipline of clinical electrophysiology and directly influenced later neurological pioneers such as Charcot and Freud.
The volume is richly illustrated with 179 finely executed anatomical and experimental figures, along with a large hand-colored fold-out lithographic plate depicting the musculature of the limbs and optic nerve. Duchenne’s attention to visual precision and scientific documentation bridged medicine and art, introducing photography as a tool of physiological study in subsequent editions. Published by J.-B. Baillière et Fils, the premier medical publisher of 19th-century France, this edition represents the authoritative text of Duchenne’s career. A landmark in the understanding of human movement, muscular pathology, and medical innovation, De l’Électrisation Localisée stands as a cornerstone in the evolution of neurology, electrotherapy, and experimental physiology.
. Some rubbing to edges and minor cracking at hinges, but overall tight and well-preserved. Interior shows moderate age toning with occasional foxing and faint water staining to preliminaries. The fold-out chromolithograph plate remains bright and complete, showing fine anatomical detail. Condition: Very Good. Item #628Price: $350.00