1654 – Elements of Euclid | Ancient Mathematics & Logic – Clavius Commentary

A rare and important study on the theories of Euclid. These theories include ancient Greek ideas on mathematics, particularly geometry. ‘Elements’ deals with practices in mathematics, such as finding and using square and cubic measures, as well as finding geometric angles of quadrilaterals. According to many mathematicians, this work is “the most influential book of mathematics of all time.”

This 1654 edition of Euclid’s Elements was features the commentary of Jesuit mathematician Christopher Clavius, which is often considered one of the best of all Euclid commentaries. This volume features books 7-15 with an added sixteenth book.

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Euclidis Posteriores Libri IX : Accessit liber XVI. De Solidorum Regularium cujuslibet intra quodlibet comparatione
• Author(s): Euclid
• Contributor(s): Christoph Clavius (Editor)
• Publisher: Francofurti: Ionae Rosa
• Edition: 1654 printing.
• Binding: Full vellum
• Format: (12mo), single volume
• Size:  7.75 x 4.75 in (20 x 12 cm)
• Collation: 680 pp
• Illustrations: Diagrams and geometric figures throughout
• Contents Include:
  • Books VII–IX on number theory
  • Books X–XIII on irrational magnitudes and geometry
  • Books XIV–XV on solid geometry
  • Supplementary Book XVI on regular solids
• Provenance: Handwritten inscription on back cover, “David Gould, Esq., 91 Bishop’s Mansions, Bishop’s Park Road, Fulham, London, S.W.6, 1941;” Armorial bookplate of Thomas Martin, who interestingly shares the same coat of arms and Motto (Initium Sapientia Est Timor Domini) as US Founding Father Luther Martin.

Condition:

Good. Full vellum binding secure with visible staining and some loss at the rear hinge; text block stable; notable spotting and foxing throughout; text remains legible.

Why Collect This?

• 17th century Latin edition of Euclid’s Elements
• Includes supplementary Book XVI on solid geometry
• Desirable for collectors of mathematics and early printings

Item Number: #50200