170 - Gerstner, FJv Handbook of Mechanics. Compiled, augmented with contributions of recent English constructions, and edited by Franz Anton von Gerstner. 3 vols. and atlas volume, totaling 4 vols. Prague, Spurny and Vienna, Sollinger, 1831–34. With engraved portrait, 1 table, and 109 engraved plates (2 with aquatint). 4to and oblong folio. 3 contemporary marbled half-leather volumes with some gilt spine repair (scuffed and bumped, vol. 1 reinforced at the joints, 1 spine panel of vol. 2 replaced) and 1 contemporary half-leather volume (spine and corners renewed).

Gerstner, FJv Handbook of Mechanics. Compiled, augmented with contributions of recent English constructions, and edited by Franz Anton von Gerstner. 3 vols. and atlas volume, totaling 4 vols. Prague, Spurny and Vienna, Sollinger, 1831–34. With engraved portrait, 1 table, and 109 engraved plates (2 with aquatint). 4to and oblong folio. 3 contemporary marbled half-leather volumes with some gilt spine repair (scuffed and bumped, vol. 1 reinforced at the joints, 1 spine panel of vol. 2 replaced) and 1 contemporary half-leather volume (spine and corners renewed). Engelmann Page 118.- One of the most important and richly illustrated works on the history of technology in the first half of the 19th century, at the same time the main work of Franz Joseph von Gerstner (1756-1832), who was active in many functions in Austria. His lectures on mechanics were published by his son Franz Anton under the title 'Handbook of Mechanics' (see Matschoss, p. 88). Roberts/Trent emphasize his importance regarding questions of tension, pressure, and material strength: 'In it, Gerstner gives the results of his experiments with pianoforte wire, which led him to recommend the use of pre-stretched wires in the construction of suspension bridges' (p. 137). Among the plates are two aquatints of the aqueduct in Ellesmere and the railway from Hetton to Sunderland, as well as further illustrations of cranes, bridges, wells, hydraulic structures, mills, etc. With the (not always present) extensive lists of subscribers in volumes 1 and 3. Text and plates somewhat foxed, title page with overpainted stamps, endpapers with library markings and removed bookplates, one plate creased.