Details
WRIGHT, Thomas (1711-1786). An original theory or new hypothesis of the universe, founded upon the laws of nature, and solving by mathematical principles the general phaenomena of the visible creation; and particularly the Via Lactea. London: H. Chapelle, 1750.
4o (284 x 214 mm). Title page printed in red and black. 32 engraved plates, 2 folding, 8 in mezzotint (occasional very minor foxing, some offsetting from plates). Contemporary mottled calf (rebacked).
FIRST EDITION. Wright, a teacher of navigation and a land surveyor by profession, had since at least 1734 sought an explanation of the universe that would accomodate both his religious and scientific views. In his earliest known work, the manuscript of a lecture, Wright described how "the divine center (the center in the moral order) was also the gravitational center (the center in the physical order), and thus Wright required the sun and the other stars to be moving in orbit about this center in order to avoid gravitational collapse" (DSB). His first ideas were modified in An original theory, and then further in Second thoughts, which was not published in the author's lifetime, but which achieved to his satisfaction the reconciliation of science and religion. Norman 2265.
4o (284 x 214 mm). Title page printed in red and black. 32 engraved plates, 2 folding, 8 in mezzotint (occasional very minor foxing, some offsetting from plates). Contemporary mottled calf (rebacked).
FIRST EDITION. Wright, a teacher of navigation and a land surveyor by profession, had since at least 1734 sought an explanation of the universe that would accomodate both his religious and scientific views. In his earliest known work, the manuscript of a lecture, Wright described how "the divine center (the center in the moral order) was also the gravitational center (the center in the physical order), and thus Wright required the sun and the other stars to be moving in orbit about this center in order to avoid gravitational collapse" (DSB). His first ideas were modified in An original theory, and then further in Second thoughts, which was not published in the author's lifetime, but which achieved to his satisfaction the reconciliation of science and religion. Norman 2265.
Sale room notice
Please note that the illustration on page 443 is of lot 880, not lot 878 as stated in the catalogue.