Title

1791 A System of Surgery Vol. I – Benjamin Bell – 5th Ed. – 10 Copper Plates

Description

Early medical and surgical reference titled A System of Surgery by Benjamin Bell, one of the most influential British surgeons of the late 18th century and often referred to as the “Father of the Edinburgh Surgical School.”

This is Volume I only from the original multi-volume work (commonly issued in three volumes), offered here in the Fifth Edition, published in Edinburgh, 1791. The volume is illustrated with ten engraved copper plates, all of which are present and intact.

The text covers foundational surgical topics of the period, including:

• Sutures and wound treatment

• Ligatures and control of hemorrhage

• Blood-letting techniques

• Aneurisms

• Hernias and hydroceles

• Early operative methods and anatomical discussion

The copperplate engravings depict surgical instruments and techniques, providing valuable insight into late-18th-century surgical practice.

Bound in contemporary leather (now worn), measuring approximately 9 x 6 inches. A solid example of an important historical surgical text, offered honestly in worn but collectible condition.

Condition

Poor to Fair, consistent with a heavily used 18th-century medical book.

• Volume I only (from a multi-volume set)

• All 10 copper plates present

• Last page missing, with associated tear visible at rear

• Binding loose

• Leather boards scuffed, worn, and abraded

• Spine label/pastedown missing

• Foxing and toning throughout

• Paper wear, edge wear, and age-related handling marks

• No evidence of removed plates beyond the missing final page

Despite flaws, the book remains complete in text aside from the final leaf, with all illustrations present.