The World Of Wit & Humour
Edited by George Manville Fenn
Published by Cassell, Petter & Galpin: London 1872 (undated)
Stunning Gilt Decorated Cloth Bindings - Profusely Illustrated Throughout - All Edges Gilt
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This remarkable mid-Victorian reference work sought nothing less than to gather the entirety of human knowledge into a single accessible source. Edited by the distinguished chemist and scholar W.T. Brande, A Dictionary of Science, Literature & Art presents concise yet authoritative explanations covering the sciences, humanities, arts, languages, religion, history, mathematics, engineering, natural history and countless other fields of inquiry. Published during an era of extraordinary intellectual expansion, it reflects the Victorian belief that knowledge could be systematically organised and made available to both scholars and educated readers.
Far more than a simple dictionary, the work serves as a comprehensive encyclopaedia of nineteenth-century learning. Entries range from scientific principles and technological innovations to classical literature, architecture, music, political economy and theology. Particularly fascinating today are its discussions of emerging scientific disciplines and discoveries, providing a snapshot of what educated Victorians understood about the world in the middle of the Industrial Revolution. The volume's numerous wood engravings further enrich the text, illustrating subjects that span the natural and mechanical sciences as well as the arts.
One of the work's greatest strengths is the calibre of its contributors. Brande assembled specialists from a wide range of disciplines, resulting in a reference book that combined scholarly authority with practical usefulness. The dictionary reflects the intellectual ambitions of nineteenth-century Britain at the height of its scientific and industrial influence, preserving contemporary explanations of subjects that continue to shape modern knowledge. As such, it remains an invaluable historical record of Victorian scholarship and education.
This 1853 Third Edition with Supplement is a particularly handsome example, presented in elegant leather bindings with beautifully marbled endpapers and all edges marbled. Profusely illustrated throughout with engraved figures and diagrams, the work offers both visual appeal and immense scholarly interest. A substantial and impressive volume, it stands as one of the great Victorian reference books and would make a striking addition to any collection devoted to science, technology, literature, education, or the history of knowledge itself."
Light wear and fading to original covers and spine. No inscriptions. Pages clean and beautifully presented with no foxing. Solid binding with no loose pages. A truly excellent copy in very good condition overall. Please study photos to further understand condition.
