Two Works in One Binding – Cartesian Medicine & Scurvy Treatise Steven Blancard (1650–1704) – Early Scientific Medicine, Leipzig 1690 MINIMAL RESERVE PRICE! Description A rare early composite volume containing two medical works by the Dutch physician Steven Blancard (also known as Stephan Blancard), an important figure in 17th-century scientific medicine and one of the early proponents of Cartesian medical philosophy. Blancard was known for applying rational, experimental thinking to medicine, rejecting scholastic tradition in favour of observation, experience, and natural laws. His work represents an important step in the transformation of medicine into a more scientific discipline. 1. Cartesianische Academie, Oder Grund-Lehre der Artzney-Kunst A medical textbook based on the philosophy of René Descartes. In this work, the human body is described as a mechanical system governed by natural laws, which can be understood through reason and scientific observation. Blancard combines Cartesian philosophy with practical medicine, presenting diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive methods based on rational analysis rather than traditional doctrine. He was also an advocate of empirical research and self-experimentation, contributing to early understanding of physiology and medical techniques. 2. Gründliche Beschreibung vom Scharbock und dessen Zufällen A detailed medical treatise on scurvy (Scharbock), one of the most serious diseases of the early modern period, especially among sailors. The work also includes observations on internal bodily processes and fermentation, interpreted through a Cartesian scientific framework. It reflects early attempts to understand disease through natural and mechanical explanations rather than humoral theory. Publication Details - Author: Steven Blancard (Stephan Blancard) - Title: Two works in one volume (Cartesian medical theory + scurvy treatise) - Year: 1690 - Place of publication: Leipzig - Publisher: Johann Friedrich Gleditsch - Format: 16.5 × 10 cm - Collation: - [8], 408, 428, [60], 6 folding plates - [16], 439, 6 folding plates - Binding: original 17th-century vellum binding with handwritten spine title Condition Complete and structurally sound copy. Light scattered foxing throughout, consistent with age, not affecting legibility. Early ownership inscriptions on endpapers and second leaf in pencil and ink. A faint old water stain on the title page of the second work, without impact on text. Occasional minor corner folds on leaves. Binding shows age-related wear, including light soiling and rubbing along edges. Despite defects, the volume remains complete, legible, and well-preserved for its age. Significance A highly interesting example of early modern medical thinking, combining Cartesian philosophy with practical clinical medicine. This volume reflects the transition from traditional Galenic medicine to a more rational and observational scientific approach in the late 17th century. Overall Impression A rare and intellectually important 17th-century medical composite volume, representing early scientific medicine, Cartesian philosophy, and one of the first systematic approaches to diseases such as scurvy. A desirable item for collectors of medical history, philosophy of science, and early scientific literature.