Physica, Sive de Rebus Corporeis Libri III. Priores. Operum Philosophicorum Tomus III
Amsterdam: Apud Joan. Ludov. de Lorme, 1710. Fourth edition.
A dense and ambitious early Enlightenment scientific work by the noted Swiss-Dutch philosopher and theologian Jean Le Clerc (Joannis Clerici), examining the natural world through the lens of physics, anatomy, botany, zoology, and natural philosophy. The text reflects the transitional intellectual period between classical Aristotelian systems and the emerging empirical sciences of the 17th and early 18th centuries. Le Clerc synthesizes contemporary scientific observation with philosophical inquiry, discussing corporeal phenomena, the structure of plants and animals, atmospheric and geographical systems, and broader natural processes.
Particularly notable are the numerous engraved folding plates, including detailed anatomical and botanical diagrams as well as an impressive large folding world map spanning the Atlantic, Africa, the Indian Ocean, and Asia-Pacific regions. The work demonstrates the period’s fascination with classification, comparative anatomy, and global geography, combining scientific illustration with philosophical discourse. Also of interest are the early manuscript ownership inscriptions to the front endpapers dated 1717, providing evidence of early readership and provenance. Works by Le Clerc are increasingly collected for their role in disseminating early Enlightenment scientific thought and for their elaborate engraved material.
Condition & Binding: Contemporary full calf binding with raised bands and black morocco spine label gilt. Binding worn but sound, with rubbing, scuffing, and loss to extremities; head of spine chipped and corners bumped. Text block slightly shaken. Internally, pages exhibit expected age toning and scattered foxing, heavier in places. Several folding engraved plates and maps present, including large multi-panel fold-outs; some folds show creasing, edge wear, short tears, and old repairs, particularly to the world map, though imagery remains largely intact and visually striking. Early manuscript ownership inscriptions to front pastedown/endpaper dated 1717. Overall- fair to good. Item #869
Price: $725.00