Ascent to the Summit of Mont Banc in 1834 (INSCRIBED First Edition)

A very good presentation copy with an interesting and rare provenance.

Presentation copy of the first edition of Barry's work. Inscribed by the author to William Beaumont. William Beaumont (1785-1853) was an American army surgeon who became known as the "Father of Gastric Physiology" through his ground-breaking research on human digestion. A portion of this book is dedicated to studies of the effects sustained exposure to altitude has on the human body. Beaumont's work likely had a large impact in shaping Barry's scientific approach.

This copy is the first variant of the publication (title page reads SEPTR). The first, privately published, account of Barry's ascent of Mont Blanc. Six guides accompanied Barry on the expedition in which he made what he argued to be the 16th ascent to the summit (it is contested that this was likely the overall 21st successful ascent). 

Due to the success of this first edition, a second trade edition was published in 1836 with expanded contents based on lectures Barry gave in the interim period.

First Edition. London: Privately published, 1835. Slim small 8vo. Contemporary half tan calf and marbled boards. Pages: [vi: two frontispieces, title], 40.

Contemporary half tan calf and marbled paper boards. Spine lettering in gilt on red Morocco panel. Very good. Front hinge slightly cracked, otherwise binding tight. Titling panel has some chips, with minor loss to lettering. Leather has some markings and wear at edges, but is in generally excellent condition. Marbled boards in like condition, with some very minor rubbing at edges. Contents complete and in very good condition. Some toning to endpaper extremities. Some foxing to preliminaries. Otherwise, contents fresh, bright, and in good order. A fantastic copy with an interesting and rare provenance.

Provenance: From the collection of Warwick Williams. Presentation copy, inscribed by author to William Beaumont. This edition was likely given to American Army surgeon William Beaumont, known also as "the Father of Gastric Physiology". Armorial bookplate of W. E. Davidson pasted to FBEP. Davidson was the president of the Alpine Club from 1911-1913.

This book is currently not on display in store.

If you would like more information or to arrange a viewing, please contact: rarebooks@harryhartog.com.au