Watts, Isaac. The Improvement of the Mind: or, a Supplement to the Art of Logic (1743 Second Edition).

Watts, Isaac.  The Improvement of the Mind: or, a Supplement to the Art of Logic (1743 Second Edition). Printed for J. Brackstone and T. Longman, London, 1743. Second Edition.

Binding: Hardcover (Full Leather). Book Condition: Good Condition. Size: 8"-9" - Octavo (8vo). 362 pages. Item Type: Book.

An early printing of Watt's textbook, which went through multiple printings. Of particular interest is the six page "Catalogue of the Writings of the Revd Dr. Isaac Watts ; Printed for and sold by James Brackstone, at the Globe in Cornhill."

The major defect is that the title page is missing. However, the half-title and preface match Brackstone's second edition, published in 1743. Other than that loss, the text block is tight. Leather-bound in polished calf with gilt lines on front and back covers and defining the raised bands on the spine. The leather is heavily worn. Spine title label is missing. Front cover hinge is broken through and held by one cord. Back cover hinge is broken, but cords are holding. Moderately foxed throughout.

There are some marks in pencil through the text. In the chapter entitled "Of Books and Reading," one reader must have gotten distracted because he sketched five tornado-like spirals in pencil in the margins of page 63. An early owner has written his name with a flourish at the top of the half-title page and dated it 1789.

The book has been held by at least two libraries. There is an old label pasted down on the inside front cover, but it has been partially removed and pasted over it is a later bookplate from the Maine Wesleyan Seminary and Female College.

Quantity Available: 1. Shipped Weight: 1 lb 3 oz. Category: Education; Logic; Britain/UK; 18th century; Religion & Theology. ISBN: No ISBN. Inventory No: 1152.
PRICE: $US 150.00