THE LABORATORY; OR, SCHOOL OF ARTS: In which are Faithfully Exhibited, and fully Explain'd, I. A Variety of curious and valuable Experiments in Refining, Calcining, Melting, Assaying, Casting, Allaying, and Toughening of Gold; with several other Curiosities relating to Gold and Silver. II. Choice Secrets for Jewellers in the Management of Gold; in Enamelling, and the Preparation of Enamel Colours, with the Art of Copying precious Stones; of preparing Colours for Doublets; of Colouring Foyles for Jewels, together with other rare Secrets. III. Several uncommon Experiments for Casting in Silver, Copper, Brass, Tin, Steel, and other Metals: Likewise in Wax, Plaister of Paris, Wood, Horn, etc. With the Management of the respective Moulds. IV. Th

8vo. 5.25 x 7.75 inches. [viii] + 252 + [8] pp. Bound in original calf with gilt borders on boards; spine in compartments with raised bands, decorated gilt, with contrasting maroon morocco title label, gilt. Some wear to extremities, light water stain on front fly leaves and occasional foxing with a few small stains; otherwise a very good crisp copy. Illustrated by 17 engraved plates, including frontispiece, of which two folding. Decorated by head and tailpieces and by initial. A well illustrated practical survey of the useful arts and technology, by Godfrey Smith. It provides an informative guide to the eighteenth century practice in the fields of metal refining, assaying, alloying and casting, jeweller's work, bookbinding, glass and colour making,and dyeing textiles. Of particular interest is the section, Of Artificial Fire-Works. First published in 1738, revised editions were appeared until 1799, with a second volume in 1756. (ESTC T72113. Philip, A Bibliography of Firework Books, 1985, p.138-139). INDUSTRY / INDUSTRIAL PROCESSES TECHNICAL INDUSTRY 18TH CENTURY ILLUSTRATED INDUSTRY / INDUSTRIAL PROCESSES. …