Maupertuis), (P. L. M. deLettre sur la comete.... Lot 524

Maupertuis), (P. L. M. deLettre sur la comete. With engraved frontispiece. (Paris), 1742. 3 vols. (of 4, title page missing), 111 p. Cl.-8°. Modern, marbled boards. Astronomie Maupertuis), (P. L. M. de Lettre sur la comete. With engraved frontispiece. (Paris), 1742. 3 vols. (of 4, title page missing), 111 p. Cl.-8°. Modern, marbled boards. Graesse, IV, 448. Barbier II, 1207. Brunet, III, 1543. Houzeau-L. 5826 (coll. abw.). Bruning 1654. Poggendorff II, 84 - Second edition in the year of the first edition, extended by the frontispiece. - The comet discussed in this letter was observed at the Paris Observatory on March 2, 1742. The author explains Newton's system and speculates that some comets are composed of gold and silver. Voltaire ironized this thesis in his Diatribe of Doctor Akakia. According to legend, Frederick the Great had all copies of the work burned in front of Voltaire's eyes because he feared for Maupertui's integrity. - Endpapers renewed. First white leaf and pre-title with contemporary hs. Inscription. Title page missing. Somewhat stained. Some worming in white margins. Astronomy - With engraved frontispiece. Modern marbled hardcover. - Second edition in the year of the first edition, enlarged with the frontispiece. - The comet discussed in this letter was observed at the Paris Observatory on 2 March 1742. Here the author explains Newton's system and speculates that some comets are composed of gold and silver. Voltaire ironized this thesis in his Diatribe of Doctor Akakia. Legend has it that Frederick the Great had all copies of the manuscript burned before Voltaire's eyes because he feared for Maupertui's integrity. - Title page missing. Endpapers renewed. First white leaf and half title with contemporary ownership inscription. Somewhat stained. Some worming in the white margin.