Posen, Decker and Comp. [AND] Berlin, Rottmann, 1797. Two volumes in two. 8vo (20.5 x 12.2 cm). I: Half title, title, title to the part [i], 495 pp.; II: Half title, title, title to part II, 468 pp. and eight folded engravings with 89 figures showing anatomical details and instruments. Original mottled boards. Spines with gilt lines and red morocco labels with gilt title. Edges red.

Rare complete copy of the first edition including all plates dealing with the physiology of muscles and nerves and the chemical processes in animal- and plant life: a starting point in nerve physiology. Heirs nr. 751: "The present work on electrical physiology, while overshadowed by his accomplishments in other fields, is nonetheless of fundamental significance. Taking as a starting point Galvani's discovery of muscular irritability, Humboldt describes and illustrates his own experiments in this field and translates his findings into the language of practical chemistry". Boards with shelfwear, number label to first spine missing. Internally a very good copy without the usual foxing. DSB vol. VI, pp. 549-555; Bibl. Walleriana, 10851; Wellcome III, p. 314.