Tracts on Vaults and Bridges. Containing observations on the various forms of vaults; on the taking down and rebuilding London Bridge; and on the principles of arches: illustrated by extensive tables of bridges. Also containing the principles of pendent bridges, with reference to the properties of the catenary, applied to the Menai Bridge. And a theoretical investigation of the catenary.

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A historical architectural and engineering treatise focused on the theory, design, and construction of vaulted structures and bridges, especially those built in masonry. Uncommon. VG, INSCRIBED by the Author, 1st ed, 1822, complete with 20 pls, 3 tables. In contemporary diced calf, gilt edge tooling, corners & edges worn. Skilfully re-spined to style, raised bands, gilt tooling, gilt titles to red calf label. Internally, [3], (iv-xx), [1] errata, [1] blank, [1] pl list, [1], [2], [1], 2-73, [1]. Tract II, [2], [1], 2-71. T3, [2], [1], 2-176 pp, 20 plates (all folding, with 79 diagrams), p43 in T2 & 35a, 145 and 177 in T3 are folding tables (versos blank), 10 illustrations in text, text leaves watermarked 1821, no WM to pl leaves, ink authors inscription to ffep, bookplate to fpd (Lady Davy, 2nd wife of Sir Henry Davy?), 1 pl trimmed along fwd line, t.e.g., but faded other edges speckled red, a little offsetting to eps. A nice example of an important engineering title. (240*144 mm]. Uncommon. (Allibone 2582. Cohen 40/41. Goldsmiths'-Kress library of economic literature, no. 23498). Tract I: Observations on Vaults, and on the origin of the principal features of decorative architecture - Tract II: Observations respecting the taking down and rebuilding London Bridge; relative to the principles of bridges: with tables of bridges, of weights and measures, and of the strength of materials - Tract III: The principles of Pendent Bridges, with reference to the properties of the catenary applied to the Menai Bridge: also a theoretical investigation of the catenary. This title is often referenced in studies of 19th-century architectural theory, bridge engineering, and the evolution of arch analysis.