£300
5 vols., 8vo, pp. [iv], 349, [1] + folding table; viii, [ii], 368; [viii], 376; [iv], xviii, 354, [50]; v, [iii], 375, [1]. Contemporary calf, spines divided by gilt rules, red morocco labels, black circular numbering pieces, edges yellow. Some light spotting and dustsoiling. Extremities rubbed, boards a little marked.
A pleasant copy of a mixed set - as issued - of these 'intelligent and lucid but derivative' essays, which 'show a particular interest in applying science to manufacturing processes and a belief that chemistry could help to realize Britain's industrial potential' (ODNB). Richard Watson (1737-1816), later Bishop of Llandaff, became professor of chemistry at Cambridge purely for the career prospects, though he did arrange a 14-month crash course in the subject (which he had not previously studied) before his first series of lectures. They were initially published over a seven year period, hence the later editions becoming out of sync; the fifth volume in this set is its second appearance after the 1787 first, while the first three volumes are fifth editions and the fourth is the fourth (its fifth appeared in 1796).
