Lot Description

KEY, Axel (1832-1901) and Magnus Gustaf RETZIUS (1842-1919). Studien in der Anatomie des Nervensystems und des Bindegewebes. Stockholm: Samson & Wallin, P.A. Norstedt & Söner, 1875-76.

2 volumes, 2o (410 x 307 mm). 75 lithographed plates (23 colored, 3 folding). Original half morocco, gilt-lettered on upper covers and spines (some light rubbing, front free endpaper of vol. 2 torn).

FIRST EDITION (and only edition) of one of the most strikingly beautiful neuroanatomies ever published, with splendid color plates reminiscent of abstract art. In 1869 Key and Retzius began their researches on the membranes and cavities of the nervous system, "in which they affirmed through injection experiments and dissections the existence of the foramina of Magendie, and presented the view that the cerebrospinal fluid escapes from the subarachnoid space through the Pacchionian bodies into the subdural space, then into the venous sinuses, and that some of it reached the cervical lymphatics" (Haymaker & Schiller, Founders of Neurology p. 71). Cushing K64; Garrison-Morton 1408.2; Heirs of Hippocrates 1974; Waller 5279. (2)