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Zena Chiara Masud

This first edition of Observations on the Structure and Diseases of the Testis by Sir Astley Cooper (1768–1841) is a cornerstone of early 19th-century surgical literature—both a scientific achievement and a work of visual artistry. Cooper, one of Britain’s most celebrated surgeons, held posts including Professor of Comparative Anatomy at the Royal College of Surgeons, Vice-President of the Royal Society, and twice President of the Royal College of Surgeons. His contributions to anatomical science and surgical practice—particularly in the areas of the mammary glands, testicles, and hernia—were pathbreaking.

In this important monograph, Cooper presents his method for injecting the testis, enabling clearer dissection and display of its minute anatomical structure. He openly acknowledges the high cost of the book, attributing it to the number and quality of its illustrations, stating in the preface: “He who understands the expense of printing, of drawings, of engravings, and of colouring, will at once discover that my object in publishing is not pecuniary advantage.” True to that claim, this work features 21 monochrome plates out of the 24, missing one folding plate and two double-page spreads. Cooper’s insistence on working with skilled artists results in images that are not only clinically informative but also striking in their detail and execution.

The binding shows noticeable wear. The pages exhibit pronounced foxing and discoloration, along with minor age-related nicks and blemishes, including some small tears, including on plate six. A number of pages remain uncut at the top edge, a feature left to the buyer’s discretion, and now valued as a mark of the book’s untouched original state. The text remains fully legible, and the book is structurally sound overall.

This is a valuable and insightful resource for collectors of medical history, surgical innovation, and 19th-century anatomical publishing. 

Shipped from France.

Illustrated, Medicine, Science - Quantity: 1 - Book

Sir Astley Cooper - Observations on the Structure and Diseases of the Testis - 1841

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Sir Astley Cooper - Observations on the Structure and Diseases of the Testis - 1841

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