Lot 52. MONGE, Gaspard.

Descriptive geometry is the science of presenting a three dimensional object on a two dimensional plane. Gaspard Monge invented descriptive geometry. His methods allowed for accurate representation of objects, including shadows and vanishing points. His methods were so important and revolutionary at the time that they were kept is a military secret. Using his formulae one could simplify the optimisation of 3 dimensional problems dramatically as well as send accurate representations of objects to allies (depictions of fortifications were particularly useful at the time, being the Napleonic era). This book was first published in 1795 as a series of lectures. The internal scholia indicate that it is a second edition. It includes all 3 projections.

Monge was a fervent supporter of the revolution and intellectual rigour. He later led the production of the Description de l’Égypte, wherein the accuracy of many of the depictions is testimony to his methods. Current applications of his breakthrough are numerous — 3d films use his techniques of representation, the calculation of stresses on surfaces and accurate architectural modelling follow from the ideas contained in these, his early lectures.

Description

Second edition (enlarged). 4to., 142 pp., 3 engraved plates, contemporary half calf, neatly rebacked, an excellent example.

Provenance: Contemporary neat ownership signature of Jean Ja[c]ques Schaub (1773-1825), professor of mathematics at the Geneva Academy and circular inkstamp of Oscar Messerly (1855-1936), Swiss civil engineer to title, Ivor Grattan Guiness bookplate to front pastedown.

Bibliography