Lives of Alchemystical Philosophers. Based on Materials Collected in 1815 and Supplemented by Recent Researches with a Philosophical Demonstration of the True Principles of the Magnum Opus or Great Work of Alchemical Re-Construction and some Account of Spiritual Chemistry.
London: George Redway, 1888. First Edition Thus. Hardcover. Large octavo. 320pp (includes unpaginated 4pp catalogue of books published by Redway at rear). Original brown boards with bevelled edges, gilt title at head of spine, "Paul, Trench, Trübner & Co." stamped at foot of spine. Gilbert B3(a) (with the bevelled edges and titling as described).
Originally published anonymously in 1815, the identity of the author of the work remains unknown, although it is sometimes ascribed - apparently wrongly - to Francis Barrett. Waite's contribution was largely editorial: he revised many of the biographies and added that of Cagliostro. The work also includes an interesting, but sometimes inaccurate, bibliography of alchemy and hermetic philosophers. Cloth lightly bumped at head of spine causing a horizonal crease above the first line of the title. Merest hint of bruising to the corners, and a little very light shelf-wear. A dozen or so tiny black flecks to the fore-edge of the text-block. Pages lightly toned with a few spots of browning. Overall a tight, clean VG+ copy (no dust jacket issued). Was $785.00 Now:. Item #72994
Price: $625.00