RAY, John (1627-1705). The wisdom of God manifested in the works of the creation. London: Samuel Smith, 1691. 8o (168 x 104 mm). (stains on gatherings D, F & L; gathering H browned throughout). Contemporary sheep (rebacked in calf; worn at edges, and stained). Provenance: Matilda Douglas (inscription). FIRST EDITION. The begining of natural theology; Ray's vast knowledge of nature, from geology to anatomy was inspired by his belief that "There is for a free man no occupation more worthy and delightful than to contemplate the beauteous works of nature and honour the infinite wisdom and goodness of God" [Ray], and he used this knowledge to "evolve a system of nature which would reinforce man's conviction of the power of providence and guarantee against the incursions of materialism" (DSB). Wing R-410; Norman 1794. -- RAY. Miscellaneous discourses concerning the dissolution and changes of the world. London: Samuel Smith, 1692. 8o (174 x 102 mm). (Some browning and occasional foxing throughout). Contemporary panelled calf (rebacked). FIRST EDITION. Revised and entitled Three Physico-Theological Discourses within a year of publication, this work demonstrated Ray's knowledge of paleontology. Ray considered fossils to be organic remains from the Deluge, as he sought scientific theories that accorded with Scriptural accounts. Wing R-397; Norman 1795. -- RAY. Philosophical letters between the late learned Mr. Ray and several of his ingenious correspondents, natives and foreigners. To which are added those of Francis Willughby Esq. Edited by W. Derham, F.R.S. London: William & John Innys, 1718. 8o (196 x 118 mm). Contemporary panelled calf (rebacked, preserving original spine). Provenance: "A. Mainewaring, A. M. Jolli: 12.1726" (inscription); E.N. da C. Andrade (bookplate). FIRST EDITION. Norman 1798. (3)

Details

RAY, John (1627-1705). The wisdom of God manifested in the works of the creation. London: Samuel Smith, 1691. 8o (168 x 104 mm). (stains on gatherings D, F & L; gathering H browned throughout). Contemporary sheep (rebacked in calf; worn at edges, and stained). Provenance: Matilda Douglas (inscription). FIRST EDITION. The begining of natural theology; Ray's vast knowledge of nature, from geology to anatomy was inspired by his belief that "There is for a free man no occupation more worthy and delightful than to contemplate the beauteous works of nature and honour the infinite wisdom and goodness of God" [Ray], and he used this knowledge to "evolve a system of nature which would reinforce man's conviction of the power of providence and guarantee against the incursions of materialism" (DSB). Wing R-410; Norman 1794. -- RAY. Miscellaneous discourses concerning the dissolution and changes of the world. London: Samuel Smith, 1692. 8o (174 x 102 mm). (Some browning and occasional foxing throughout). Contemporary panelled calf (rebacked). FIRST EDITION. Revised and entitled Three Physico-Theological Discourses within a year of publication, this work demonstrated Ray's knowledge of paleontology. Ray considered fossils to be organic remains from the Deluge, as he sought scientific theories that accorded with Scriptural accounts. Wing R-397; Norman 1795. -- RAY. Philosophical letters between the late learned Mr. Ray and several of his ingenious correspondents, natives and foreigners. To which are added those of Francis Willughby Esq. Edited by W. Derham, F.R.S. London: William & John Innys, 1718. 8o (196 x 118 mm). Contemporary panelled calf (rebacked, preserving original spine). Provenance: "A. Mainewaring, A. M. Jolli: 12.1726" (inscription); E.N. da C. Andrade (bookplate). FIRST EDITION. Norman 1798. (3)