Essai Théorique et Expérimental sur le Galvanisme
Paris: Imprimerie de Fournier Fils, An XII, 1804. First edition.
First edition of this seminal scientific treatise by Jean Aldini (1762–1834), the nephew of Luigi Galvani and one of the foremost figures in the early study of bioelectricity. In Essai Théorique et Expérimental sur le Galvanisme, Aldini expands upon his uncle’s discovery of animal electricity, presenting a rigorous series of experiments conducted before the French Institute and in the anatomical theaters of London. His work documents the galvanic stimulation of animal and human muscles — including the now-famous reanimation experiments on executed criminals — and lays the groundwork for electrotherapy and modern electrophysiology.
The two volumes are richly illustrated with engraved folding plates depicting galvanic apparatus, laboratory instruments, and experimental setups. The text systematically examines the physical theory of galvanism, its relationship to electricity and magnetism, and its medical and physiological implications. Aldini’s narrative blends detailed experimental reporting with philosophical analysis, making it a landmark in both the history of neuroscience and the development of bioelectric science. His demonstrations would later inspire both scientific progress and literary imagination, influencing works such as Frankenstein by Mary Shelley.
Condition & Binding: Two octavo volumes. Bound in contemporary full tree calf, spines richly gilt with ornamental urn and lattice tooling, red and green morocco title and volume labels (“ESSAI SUR LE GALVANISME,” “I / 2”). Boards show rubbing, surface wear, and small losses, primarily at corners and edges; joints lightly cracked but sound. Bindings remain tight and complete, with crisp, clean pages showing only mild toning and scattered spotting typical of early 19th-century paper. Plates are well-preserved and sharply struck with strong impressions. Overall good. Item #653
Price: $800.00