The science of gems, jewels, coins, and medals, ancient and modern. By Archibald Billing, M.D. A.M. F.R.S. F.R.G.S. F.R.M.S. Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians; member of the senate of the University of London; honorary and corresponding member of the Medical Societies of Florence, Brussels, Dresden, and New York; formerly professor of clinical medicine and of the theory and practice in the School of Medicine, and physician, of the London Hospital; examiner in medicine in the University of London; President of the Hunterian Society; Vice-President of the Royal Medical and Chirurgical Society, etc. Author of "First principles of medicine;" "Practical observations on diseases of the lungs and heart;" "On the treatment of Asiatic cholera," etc.
London: Bell & Daldy, York Street, Covent Garden; J. Mitchell, Bond Street, publisher to Her Majesty, MDCCCLXVII
Physical Description
xi, [1], 221, [3] p., [19] leaves of photographic plates: illus.; 230 mm.
General Note
Printer statement on verso of half-title 'London: Levey and Co., Printers, Great New Street, Fetter Lane, E.C.' Also on verso of half-title is the credit for the photographic illustrations, 'Photographs by F. Cole, Brompton.'
Summary Note
The work concludes with a translation of the autobiography of the Italian engraver Benedetto Pistrucci (1784-1855), who became chief medallist at the Royal Mint.
Provenance
The top of the title-page is inscribed in ink 'For the Royal Academy of Arts from the Author.'
Binding Note
The rear pastedown carries a binder's label printed 'Bound by Burn & Co. Kirby St.' Blue publisher's binding with spine lettered in gold 'Science of Gems &c. - Archibald Billing' and 'Bell & Daldy'.