CHAMBERS, Robert (1802-1871)

[Geology] Ancient Sea-Margins as Memorials of Changes in the Relative Level of Sea and Land

Edinburgh & London: W. & R. Chambers & W. S. Orr, MDCCCXLVIII [1848]. Original Cloth. Scarce First Edition of Chambers's detailed study of sea level changes along the Scottish and English coastlines, illustrated with color folding map. Demy 8vo (228 x 138mm): vi,337,[1]pp, with tissue-guarded frontispiece view of St. Andrews links, folding color map of Lochaber, and numerous illustrations in the text. The appendix includes thirteen tables showing the heights of terraces at various locales, primarily in Scotland. Publisher's brown decorative cloth, covers framed in triple blind rule and elaborately blocked in blind with arabesque designs, spine titled direct in black; pale yellow end papers, edges rough-trimmed. Neat owner's inscription to head of half title, dated 1851. An excellent example in original cloth, skillfully rebacked with original moderately faded spine laid down; scar to rear paste-down from which a label was clumsily removed, but firmly bound and generally clean throughout (light spotting to frontispiece and folding map). Geology Emerging 469. Near Fine+. Item #BB2769

Chambers was a Scottish publisher, evolutionary thinker, and journal editor best known for his 1844 work of speculative natural history, Vestiges of the Natural History of Creation. He was also a keen geologist, here offering evidence of changing sea levels, supporting his view that Great Britain was historically far more deeply submerged. N. B. With few exceptions (always identified), we only stock books in exceptional condition, carefully preserved in archival, removable mylar sleeves. All orders are packaged with care and posted promptly. Satisfaction guaranteed. (Fine Editions Ltd is a member of the Independent Online Booksellers Association, and we subscribe to its codes of ethics.).

Price: $499.00