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SIBLY, Ebenezer.
A new and complete Illustration of the celestial science of Astrology;
Or, the Art of foretelling future Events and Contingencies, by the Aspects, Positions, and Influences, of the heavenly bodies. Founded on natural philosophy, scripture, reason, and the mathematics … In four parts … The Eleventh Edition - Embellished with curious Copper-Plates …
Publisher: London: by J. Adlard; and sold by Champante and Whitrow; and at the Encyclopaedia-Office, 1812
Stock code: 60915
Price: £1,500 Currency Conversion
A handsome copy of Sibly's massive four-part compendium of astrology, occult philosophy, and magic, which was first published 1784-8. It was "the first comprehensive textbook for decades, covering judicial astrology (including both the genethliacal, or natal, and the horary branches) as well as mundane and meteorological applications. Also included were sections on natural and occult philosophy, witchcraft, ceremonial magic, and necromancy - the last presented as a warning, in a satisfyingly sensational manner" (ODNB). The last known edition appeared in 1826.
Quarto (259 × 204 mm). Contemporary reversed calf, sides with blind scroll border enclosing a panel divided saltire-wise by a small decorative roll, flat spine divided into compartments by blind rolls, recent red morocco label to style. 2 engraved frontispieces, 26 engraved plates, 2 printed tables on one side of the leaf only, numerous astrological diagrams and tables in the text. Some skilful restoration to spine, few small wormtracks to front inside board not affecting the text block, some contemporary manuscript notes and calculations in the text, contemporary 16pp manuscript with an additional single leaf loosely inserted in the front, comprising a lunar table, a treatise on determining the course of a disease by horological astrology, with four nativity charts and a diagram of the solar system (some worming to the manuscript). Overall, an excellent copy.
