FRISI, Paolo

Operum

      Engraved medallion portrait on title of Vol. I & 14 folding engraved plates. 2 p.l., 466, [2] pp.; 2 p.l., 533, [3] pp.; 3 p.l., 561, [3] pp. 3 vols. Large 4to, slightly later vellum-backed marbled boards (some dustiness & occasional light foxing), arms of The Society of Writers to the Signet on covers, later red morocco lettering pieces on spines. Milan: J. Galeati, 1782-83-85. First collected edition of Frisi's important scientific writings on mathematics, physics, hydraulics, and astronomy. "In physics his research must be evaluated in relation to the concepts dominant in his time, which led him to justify and interpret certain phenomena of light and aspects of electricity, referring to the vibratory motion of ether and other properties attributed to it. As an astronomer he concerned himself with the daily movement of the earth (in De motu diurno terrae, awarded a prize by the Berlin Academy), the obliquity of the ecliptic, the movement of the moon, the determination of the meridian circle, and matters concerning gravity in relation to Newton's general theories. His mathematical activity included studies on kinematics (composition of rotatory movements, etc.) and, notably, on isoperimetry. He also did work in hydraulics and was called upon to plan works for the regulation of rivers and canals in various parts of northern Italy. He was responsible for laying out the canal built in 1819 between Milan and Pavia."!D.S.B., V, p. 195. Very good set. Ex Bibliotheca Mechanica. Houzeau & Lancaster 3493. Riccardi, I, 490!"Bella ediz." .