GRAAF, Abraham de.
De seven boecken van de groote zeevaert, zijnde een volkomen klare, en konstige beschrijvinghe der navigatie.
Amsterdam, Pieter Goos, 1658. 7 parts in 1 volume. Folio. With a half-page engraving on the half-title, a woodcut vignette on the title-page, 6 folding engraved tables and numerous woodcut mathematical diagrams, figures, tables and other illustrations in the text. With woodcut tailpieces and woodcut decorated initials. Contemporary vellum with a manuscript title on the spine. [1], [1 blank], [8], 39, [1 blank]; [2], 4, [45], [1 blank], [90], 5-91, [1 blank]; 96; 86, [2 blank]; 39, [1 blank]; 60, 18, [2 blank]; 96, [7], [1 blank] pp.
€ 8,500
Rare first edition of Abraham de Graaf's mathematical work, published for nautical experts studying navigation. The mathematical and astronomical theories are illustrated with countless woodcut diagrams and figures in the text and 6 additional folding engraved plates. Included are numerous, incredibly detailed logarithmical and other mathematical tables (mainly in the second book). "The tables are the first logarithmical tables in a Dutch navigation book. The tables are probably computed and computed and enlarged by Adriaen Vlacq and based on those of John Napier and Henry Briggs" (Crone 210).
The present work comprises 7 parts with individual title-pages (each dated 1657), bound and published as one with two general title-pages and a comprehensive index. The subject of the "books" include for example: astronomy, geometry, calculations regarding compasses, cartography concerning "paskaarten" (a type of nautical chart), and observation and navigation at sea.
Binding browned and somewhat worn, mainly the back board, some mould spots on the pastedowns and flyleaves, some light water staining to the head margin, slight foxing throughout. With a tear in the 3rd and 4th folding plates. Overall in good condition. Bibl. Nautica 2048; Cat. NHSM p. 666; Crone Library 210; STCN 09324195X (6 copies); WorldCat 1156962499 (1 copy), 993578800 (1 copy), 1154627661 (8 copies); for the author: NNBW part 10, cols. 293-296.
Related Subjects:
