Motion of Water – Edme Mariotte – 1718 | First Edition, Hydrostatics & Fountains

The Motion of Water and Other Fluids by Edme Mariotte is a rare 1718 treatise on the study of hydrostatics. This work examines the natural behaviors of water under pressure and in motion, written for the purpose of assisting fountain builders create functioning garden fountains. Mariotte’s analysis includes the effects of gravity on water movement, locating and utilizing fresh-water springs, and other aspects relevant to 18^th-century engineers. Notably, this first English edition includes discussions on wind as well as practical rules for using fountains.

This edition is notable not just for being a first English edition, but for the inclusion of numerous full-page and folding engravings.

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Motion of Water and Other Fluids. Being a Treatise of Hydrostaticks
• Author(s): Edme Mariotte
• Contributor(s): J. T. Desaguliers (Translator)
• Publisher: London: Printed for J. Senex and W. Taylor
• Edition: First Edition. 1718.
• Format: (8vo), single volume
• Binding: Full leather
• Size:  7.75 in × 5 in (19.7 cm × 12.7 cm)
• Collation: [xxiii], 290 pp
• Illustrations: Seven engraved plates
• Contents Include:
  • Origin of wind
  • Source of freshwater springs
  • Influence of gravity on fluids
  • Waterline geometry
  • Hydraulic distribution
  • Rules for fountains

Condition:

Full leather with moderate wear at corners and hinges. Binding tight and secure. Spine intact. Plates sharp and clean. Text block firm and very good overall.

Why Collect This?

• Early English translation of a scientific work on hydrostatics
• Complete with 7 engraved plates
• Noted for early discussion of water motion and pressure studies

Item Number: # 29456