A Dictionary Of Arts, Manufactures & Mines - Containing A Clear Exposition Of Their Principles And Practice.
Illustrated With Nearly Sixteen Hundred Engravings On Wood
By Andrew Ure
Published by Longman, Brown, Green And Longmans: London 1853 4th Edition Corrected & Greatly Enlarged
Stunning Leather Bindings - Profusely Illustrated Throughout - All Edges Marbled - Complete 2vol Set
"
A Dictionary of Arts, Manufactures & Mines stands as one of the great monuments of the Industrial Revolution, bringing together an extraordinary survey of the scientific, engineering, manufacturing, and industrial knowledge that underpinned Britain's rise as the world's leading industrial power. Compiled by the distinguished Scottish chemist and industrial writer Andrew Ure, this monumental reference work sought to explain the principles, machinery, materials, and processes behind virtually every significant industry of the mid-nineteenth century. By the time of this greatly enlarged fourth edition in 1853, the work had become an essential reference for engineers, manufacturers, inventors, mine owners, and educated readers seeking to understand the rapidly changing technological world around them.
Across two substantial volumes and illustrated with nearly sixteen hundred finely executed wood engravings, the dictionary provides a remarkable snapshot of Victorian industry at its peak. Topics range from mining, metallurgy, steam power, shipbuilding, textiles, printing, chemicals, and agriculture through to machinery, transportation, construction techniques, and countless specialised trades. The detailed illustrations are a particular highlight, offering contemporary visual records of industrial equipment, manufacturing processes, tools, engines, workshops, and mining operations that today provide invaluable insight into nineteenth-century technology and engineering practice.
Beyond its practical value, the work serves as an encyclopaedia of Victorian innovation and ambition. Ure's writing captures a period when scientific discovery and industrial advancement were transforming society at an unprecedented pace. The dictionary documents both established industries and emerging technologies, preserving a wealth of technical knowledge that might otherwise have been lost. As such, it remains an important primary source for historians of science, technology, engineering, transport, mining, and industrial archaeology, while also appealing to collectors interested in the history of invention and manufacture.
Beautifully presented in matching leather bindings with raised bands, marbled text blocks, and handsome period craftsmanship throughout, this complete two-volume set possesses exceptional shelf presence. The profusion of illustrations, substantial scale, and breadth of subject matter make it one of the most ambitious industrial reference works of the Victorian era. Increasingly difficult to find complete in such attractive bindings and condition, it represents both an important historical resource and a striking centrepiece for any serious collection of science, engineering, technology, or Industrial Revolution literature."
Light wear and minor rub through to original leather covers and spine. No inscriptions. Pages clean and beautifully presented with no foxing. Solid binding with no loose pages. A truly excellent 2 volume set in very good condition overall. Please study photos to further understand condition.
