225 - FAUJAS de ST FOND.

FAUJAS de ST FOND. Research on the Extinct Volcanoes of the Vivarais and the Velay. Paris, Grenoble: Joseph Cuchet, Nyon aîné, Née, and Masquelier, 1778. Dedicated to Cardinal de Bernis Large folio, (4)-XVIII-(3)-460 pp., including the Table of Contents, (4) pp. for the List of Subscribers at the end. Contemporary marbled fawn calfskin, ribbed spine decorated with gilded floral panels, red morocco title label, gilt title, gilt edges, triple gilt fillet on the covers, double gilt fillet on the edges, gilded scroll on the half-backs, whirl-pattern endpapers (upper cap rubbed, upper joint slightly split 1 cm at the top, ribs slightly rubbed, a few leaves slightly oxidized, and a slight lateral water stain on a few leaves, scattered, minor foxing spots, but the volume remains fresh). First edition, illustrated with 20 large black etchings on fine laid paper, including one spread across two pages. The prints are in fine condition, including the map with light watercolor highlights; 3 large engraved vignettes (depicting important volcanic sites) and several ornate initials. A fine copy with full margins. Including a beautiful etching on the title page signed by Savart depicting a view of Mount Etna. An important work presenting the sum of knowledge on the formation of volcanoes as reported by Barthélemy Faujas de Saint-Fond (1741–1819), a French geologist and volcanologist, from his expeditions in Auvergne, with numerous large, detailed engravings. Includes a “Discourse on Active Volcanoes” and analytical treatises on minerals and substances such as schorls, zeolite, pozzolan, and lava.