BROWNE'S 1681 COMPLEAT TREATISE OF THE MUSCLES, WITH SUPERB ENGRAVED ANATOMICAL PLATES
(MEDICINE) BROWNE, John. A Compleat Treatise of the Muscles, As they appear in Humane Body, And arise in Dissection; With Diverse Anatomical Observations not yet Discover'd. London: Printed by Tho. Newcombe for the Author, 1681. Folio (8 by 12-1/2 inches), contemporary full mottled calf rebacked, raised bands, old spine label retained.
First edition, with 37 copper-engraved plates depicting full figures and muscle groups, and an engraved frontispiece portrait.
One of his most notable works, Browne's treatise "consists of six lectures, illustrated by elaborate copper-plates… It is probably the first of such books in which the names of the muscles are printed on the figures'' (DNB). His description of the muscles of the human body incorporates William Molins' 1648 anatomical treatise, Muscotomia. "Browne was a well-educated man, and a good surgeon for his time… Browne's best-known work is A Compleat Treatise of the Muscles, published in 1681, but on which he had been working since 1675… Browne's book was popular and appeared in ten editions" (ODNB). With extensive notes accompanying each plate, a subscriber's list, and two tables. Wing 5126. Early owner ink signature dated 1684. Engraved armorial bookplate, two 20th-century physicians' bookplates; old dealer description tipped to front pastedown.
A few marginal paper repairs, text and plates generally quite clean, contemporary mottled calf covers in excellent condition, nicely rebacked. An exceptionally good copy of this scarce title.