BELL, JOHN. 1763-1820.


Discourses on the Nature and Cure of Wounds. Edinburgh: Bell & Bradfute, 1795. 3 parts in 1 volume. 8vo (228 x 133 mm). 2 engraved plates and 1 engraved illustration in text, advertisement on verso of half-title, binder's instructions at end. Early 19th century half calf gilt with marbled boards. Wear to covers, corners slightly bumped, a few stains and minor browning.Provenance: John Beattie Bowers (ink owner's inscription, dated 1799).FIRST EDITION. Bell is widely regarded as one of the founders of surgical anatomy. His lectures were considered progressive at the time, because of his outspoken criticism of established surgical procedures and the unnecessary pain they inflicted on the patients. Nonetheless, they attracted large crowds to the anatomical lecture theatre at Surgeons' Square at the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. His brother, Charles Bell, was a successful surgeon and anatomist and prolific author.See Wellcome II, p 137.