The vanities of philosophy & physick
Publisher Information: London: A. Roper; R. Basset; W. Turner, 1699.
Harvey, Gideon (ca. 1636-1640 – ca. 1700-1702). The vanities of philosophy & physick: Together with directions and medicines easily prepared by any of the least skill, whereby to preserve health, and prolong life . . . [8], 184pp. London: Printed for A. Roper . . . R. Basset . . . and W. Turner, 1699. 174 x 103 mm. Contemporary paneled calf, rebacked. Some toning and foxing, a few side-notes touched, but good to very good. Occasional marginal annotations in an early hand.
First Edition. Harvey served as physician to both Charles II and William and Mary. His medical writings, while of little value scientifically, are written in a lively style and “reflect light on medical customs and persons of the time, and thus have some historical value” (Dictionary of National Biography). He was notorious for attacking other physicians in print, and for promoting his own “secret” cures, as he does on page 79 of the present work—a former owner wrote a caustic note in the margin reading “this is as much to say you must goe to ye author to be cured.” Wing 1079.
Book Id: 50259Price: $1,000.00