Discours de la Méthode
First edition of the Discourse on the Method in contemporary Dutch vellum, a most enviable condition for this masterpiece published in Leiden in 1637.
In-4 of 78, [1-1 bl], 413, [34-1 bl], complete.
Full overlapping vellum, boards decorated with a gilt fillet border, smooth spine, speckled edges. Dutch binding of the period.
199 x 155 mm.
Descartes, René. Discourse on the Method for Properly Guiding One's Reason and Seeking the Truth in the Sciences. Along with the Dioptrics, the Meteors, and the Geometry, which are essays on this method.
Leiden, Ian Maire, 1637.
Precious original edition of Descartes' masterpiece.
Tchemerzine. Éditions originales. II. 776. PMM, 129. Horblit, One Hundred Books Famous in Science, 24.
After Galileo's condemnation in 1633, Descartes resolved not to have any works printed during his lifetime. From Holland, where his desire for solitude and isolation had led him, the philosopher nonetheless continued to correspond with his relatives. It was at their urging that he relented, publishing in 1637 an anthology of his research that conveyed the character of a very singular and highly personal approach. After considering entrusting his work to the Elzeviers and then to a Parisian printer, Descartes finally negotiated with the bookseller-printer Jean Maire, established in Leiden, in return for payment in 200 author’s copies.
A fundamental work written in French to be more intelligible and accessible, The Discourse on the Method marks a significant stage in the development of Western thought in the 17th century.
The Discourse on the Method is followed by three scientific treatises, also in the original edition: "Dioptrics", "Geometry", and "Meteors", abundantly illustrated with woodcut figures.
Descartes also mentions Harvey's discoveries on blood circulation (Exercitadio anatomica de motu cordis et sanguinis, 1628). This is the first discussion on the subject by a French philosopher.
Like most important scientific books, the price of Discourse on the Method has increased considerably over several decades in the international market. The ideal condition for this original is, of course, contemporary vellum binding.
Rare copies bound in contemporary vellum, without significant provenance, have appeared on the market over the past two decades.
The first, sold in New York 21 years ago, was then auctioned for over $200,000.
The second, the "Beguin copy described with 'wormholes restored in the margin of several dozen leaves and some foxing'; Paris, 2006" was sold for €180,000 in Paris 16 years ago.
The third, the "copy sold by Christie's London on 2 June 2004, lot no. 54 described 'a little light browning, a few spot'", was auctioned for €247,000 18 years ago.
Precious and remarkable copy preserved in its contemporary Dutch vellum binding—a highly prized condition for this original published in Leiden—with wide margins.
Ref. Van Otegem (Bibl. Descartes) 14-19 (ext. Descr.). – Breugelmans (Maire) 1637:8 – PMM 129 – En français dans le texte 90 – Dibner (Heralds of science) 81. – Norman 621.
Provenance: “Ex-libris H. f. de Hodiamont née de Grooteclaes, April 27, 1689 (ms. entry on front flyleaf, on verso: “emptum … 20 Martii 1681”). M. de Baratte (ms. Entry on last flyleaf, on verso “Monsieur a tres chere”).
