Réaumur: A polymath outside the Encyclopédie

Description

TORLAIS (Jean). Réaumur: A polymath outside the Encyclopédie, based on unpublished documents. Desclée De Brouwer, 1936, small octavo, 447 pp., featuring a portrait of Réaumur and 10 plates of engravings, references, index, paperback (cover slightly worn). René-Antoine Ferchault de Réaumur (1683–1757) was renowned as a biologist, entomologist, inventor, metallurgist, naturalist, and physicist. The most striking aspect of Réaumur’s work is his absolute objectivity. His investigative method differed fundamentally from that of contemporary researchers. This important study by Dr. Jean Torlais, a leading 18th-century science historian, is considered the definitive reference on Réaumur and remains a valuable resource for those interested in early 18th-century science and the French scientific milieu.