The History of Magic [Bohn's Scientific Library] [1854 First English Translation] [Two-Volume Set] [Custom Occultist Binding]

Ennemoser, Joseph (1787-1854); Translated from the German by William Howitt; Selected and Edited by Mary Howitt

Published by Henry G. Bohn, London, 1854

About this Item

A Scientific Inquiry into the Supernatural. The first appearance in English of this monumental work by the Austrian physician and pioneer of animal magnetism. Ennemoser was a precursor to Freud, arguing that miracles and magic were not violations of nature, but manifestations of untapped psychological and physical laws. This set is housed in a remarkable custom binding of full red goat, designed with leather spine straps and fasteners, giving it the appearance of a rugged Victorian research archive. KEY FEATURES +++ Provenance of Thought: Translated by the prominent Spiritualist William Howitt and edited by his wife, Mary Howitt, who contributed a massive appendix of primary accounts. +++ Comprehensive Scope: Covers the full spectrum of the paranormal, including Vampirism, Witchcraft, Second Sight, Somnambulism, and Spirit-Rapping. +++ The Binding: A singular, professional rebinding in red goat with black calf leather spine straps and fasteners; titles are inlaid in black calf with gilt lettering with a presentation like a field kit for a Victorian ghost hunter. +++ Historical Link: Connects ancient biblical miracles and classical oracles to modern 19th-century magnetism and hypnosis. CONDITION: Fine [Rebound] -- The custom bindings are exceptionally tight, square, and structural. The text blocks show even toning and occasional foxing consistent with age. Vol. 1 has a small hole to the lower half-title and a slightly weak gutter, though the binding remains secure. Minimal pencil marginalia noted in a few sections. A striking, tactile set. HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE -- Joseph Ennemoser was one of the first scientists to treat the Labyrinth of the Mind as a measurable field. He was famous for his demonstrations on how delusions and supernatural events could be explained through magnetism. This 1854 edition arrived just as the Spiritualist movement was sweeping through Britain and America, making it a foundational text for those trying to prove-or debunk-the existence of the spirit world using the scientific method. SUBJECTS: Occult Sciences, History of Magic, Victorian Spiritualism, Psychology, Magnetism, Hypnosis, Vampirism, Fine Bindings, Science & Medicine.

Seller Inventory # 21614

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The History of Magic [Bohn's Scientific Library] [1854 First English Translation] [Two-Volume Set] [Custom Occultist Binding]
• Publisher: Henry G. Bohn, London
• Publication Date: 1854
• Edition: First English Translation.
• Condition: Fine with good Internals
• Dust Jacket Condition: No Dust Jacket.
• Weight: 4 pounds
• Seller catalogs:
  • RELIGION, FAITH & SPIRITUALITY
  • 19th CENTURY PUBLICATIONS
  • FINE PRESS and BINDINGS