1887 The Chemistry of the Sun by J. Norman Lockyer | First Edition Fine Leather Binding, Astronomy Book | Publisher’s Presentation Copy

By J. Norman Lockyer, F.R.S.
London: Macmillan and Co., 1887. First Edition.

A handsome first edition of J. Norman Lockyer’s landmark study of solar physics and astronomical spectroscopy. Lockyer, the English astronomer credited with co-discovering helium and founder of the journal Nature, examines the Sun’s composition through the evidence of its spectrum, Fraunhofer lines, solar prominences, sunspots, stellar spectra, and the instruments used to study them.

This substantial work is illustrated throughout with 134 in-text figures depicting spectroscopes, laboratory apparatus, solar observations, spectral diagrams, and early astronomical equipment. It is further distinguished by a “With the Publisher’s Compliments” stamp on the title page, suggesting it was issued as a publisher’s presentation copy.

Beautifully rebound in full tan leather, the volume features gilt dotted borders to the boards, gilt ruling, a brown leather spine label lettered in gilt, and warm red-orange endpapers and page edges. A striking Victorian scientific work for collectors of astronomy, the history of science, and fine leather-bound books.

Condition: Very good condition. Tight and sound binding with clean, well-preserved pages and crisp illustrations. Light rubbing and a few small marks to the leather boards, including minor wear at the lower edge, consistent with age. Publisher’s presentation stamp and a discreet previous owner notation are present.

Size: Approximately 6” x 9”

A beautiful and scholarly Victorian astronomy volume, bound to be a standout on a scientific or antiquarian shelf.