Comparative Neurology: A Manual and Text for the Study of the Nervous System of Vertebrates.

First edition of James W. Papez’s important early textbook of comparative neuroanatomy, Comparative Neurology: A Manual and Text for the Study of the Nervous System of Vertebrates, illustrated by Pearl Sowden Papez. A substantial study of vertebrate nervous systems based heavily upon Papez’s own research and developed from his teaching at Cornell University. The work treats the gross anatomy of the mammalian brain, microscopic structure of the mammalian nervous system, and the comparative anatomy of the brains of lower vertebrates. xxv, 518 pages, with 315 illustrations. Papez became one of the major figures in twentieth-century neuroanatomy and is best remembered for his 1937 description of the neural pathway now known as the Papez circuit, fundamental to the developing understanding of emotion, memory, and the limbic system. Provenance From the library of Arthur A. Ward Jr., M.D., with his pictorial medical “Ex Libris Arthur A. Ward Jr.” bookplate on the front pastedown. Ward was a prominent American neurosurgeon and neurophysiologist and later founding chairman of the Department of Neurological Surgery at the University of Washington. His career included experimental neurophysiology, epilepsy research, neurosurgical training, and leadership in American neurological surgery. The provenance is particularly appropriate and desirable in a work devoted to neuroanatomy and the nervous system. Condition Good in original gray-brown cloth with black rules and printed title panels to front board and spine. Binding shows light general rubbing and shelf wear, with some wear and slight fraying at spine ends and corners. Cloth remains attractive overall and lettering is strong. Text block shows expected age toning. Internal binding/spine cracked at approximately page 231 but remains intact and holding. Arthur A. Ward Jr. bookplate affixed to front pastedown. Interior otherwise appears generally clean in the pages examined. No dust jacket. Please see photographs for full condition and provenance details. Significance / Collector Appeal An important early work by James W. Papez, published eight years before his landmark proposal of the brain circuit that would bear his name. Comparative Neurology grew from Papez’s Cornell teaching and research in comparative neuroanatomy and was recognized upon publication as a substantial contribution to neurological education. The Arthur A. Ward Jr. provenance gives this particular copy additional neurological and medical-history interest, connecting an important work of comparative neuroanatomy with a prominent twentieth-century neurosurgeon and epilepsy researcher. Shipping / Returns: Carefully packed for shipment. Domestic shipping via USPS Media Mail unless otherwise requested. Expedited and international shipping available where permitted. Returns accepted in accordance with AbeBooks policies. SCI 3b.…