Physico-Mathesis De Lumine, Coloribus, Et Iride

GRIMALDI, Francisco Maria (?1618-1663). Physico-mathesis de lumine, coloribus, et iride. Bologna: heirs of Victorio Benacci for Girolamo Bernia, 1665. First edition of Grimaldi’s only publication: the discovery of optical diffraction . In this important and celebrated work Grimaldi describes his discovery of the inflection of the solar rays near certain bodies. He was the first to declare that the diffusion of light was instantaneous. The diffraction experiments which Grimaldi describes show "that a new mode of transmission of light had been discovered and that this mode contradicts the notion of an exclusively rectilinear passage of light. Diffraction thus gave prima facie evidence for a fluid nature of light. The name 'diffraction' comes from the loss of uniformity observed in the flow of a stream of water as it 'splits apart' around a slender obstacle placed in its path." (DSB). Riccardi I, 631: "celebrated and scarce work." Quarto (235 x 172mm). Additional with large engraved vignette, additional title and letterpress title printed in red and black, woodcut illustrations and diagrams, in double columns. (A few gatherings browned, some light spotting, top margin cropped.) 17th century vellum, manuscript title on spine (later endpapers, repair to foot of spine). Custom clamshell box.

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