Description:
Thévenot, Melchisédech (1620-1692) The Art of Swimming. Illustrated by Proper Figures. With Advice for Bathing. London: Printed for Dan. Brown at the Swan without Temple-Bar; D. Midwinter and T. Leigh at the Rose and Crown, and Robert Knaplock at the Angel, in St. Pauls Church-Yard, 1699. First edition in English, variant, 12mo, half-title present, illustrated with forty engraved plates, bound in very good contemporary speckled tan calf, boards gilt-ruled, spine label, contents good, joints cracking slightly, 6 1/2 x 3 3/4 in.
This is Thévenot's most famous work, and was a popular guide to swimming techniques in the 18th century, including the breaststroke. Ben Franklin was a fan of The Art of Swimming; he mentions it in his autobiography.
A-C12, D6.
http://estc.bl.uk/R2501
Estimate $2,500-3,500
The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.
Keywords
ben franklin, Robert Knaplock, Crown, LondonJohn Dorfman
Director, Books & Manuscripts
508-970-3293
Fine Books & Manuscripts
The Fine Books & Manuscripts department delivers scholarship, expertise, and attention to detail in appraisals, evaluations, and auctions of rare books and historically important material ranging from medieval manuscripts to presidential documents.