The Art of Metals, In Which is Declared the Manner of Their Generation, and the Concomitants of Them

Barba, Albaro Alonso (Translated by Edward, Earl of Sandwich)

Published by S.Mearne, London, 1674

About this Item

London, printed for S.Mearne, 1674. Second edition of this translation. 12mo. Two parts in one, the second book: …Wherein is Taught the Common Way of Refining Silver by Quicksilver with Some New Rules Added for the Better Performance of the Same . (iv), 156pp, (ii), 91pp, [3]. Illustrated with one engraved plate showing various pieces of equipment used in the refining process. Originally published in Spanish in 1640, this book is noted as being the first book on mining in the Americas and a key early work on the technique of extraction of gold, silver and copper by chemical processes. Barba s technique for extracting silver from ore by mixing it with salt and mercury and boiling it in a copper vessel revolutionised the process, resulting in great wealth for the Spanish monarchy and state. This English translation by the The Earl of Sandwich was first published in 1670 as The Art of Mettals and as with this work, is relatively scarce. Bound in full contemporary sheepskin, skilfully and imperceptibly re-cornered and rebacked with the original spine laid down. The engraved plate skilfully backed onto matching handmade paper. Very slight chipping to the lower edge of the title page. Otherwise a very clean copy in very good condition. Further photographs available on request. NB The price of this item is negotiable dependent on your chosen payment method. Please feel free to make contact for further information on this item or on payment options. Size: 12mo - over 6¾" - 7¾" tall.

Seller Inventory # 665

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Art of Metals, In Which is Declared the Manner of Their Generation, and the Concomitants of Them
• Publisher: S.Mearne, London
• Publication Date: 1674
• Binding: Full-Leather
• Edition: 2nd.
• Condition: Very Good
• Seller catalogs:
  • Science and Engineering