A Plurality of Worlds by Bernard de Fontenelle

Bernard Le Bovier de Fontenelle’s A Plurality of Worlds (1686) was a pivotal work in popularising the Copernican system. Written as witty, engaging dialogues set over a series of evenings, the book presents the astronomical theories of René Descartes and Nicolaus Copernicus. By simplifying complex astronomical ideas, Fontenelle made contemporary scientific thought more accessible to a wider readership. The work is considered an early example of scientific popularisation and contributed to the broader intellectual currents of the Enlightenment.

This edition is John Glanvill’s English translation and includes a prologue by David Garnett. It was published by The Nonesuch Press in 1929 as a limited edition of 1600 copies. The number of this particular copy is unknown.

The book is housed in its original slipcase, featuring a brick-red background with gilt constellation decoration. It is bound in soft, flexible vellum, with gilt lettering to the spine and a small gilt decoration to the front cover. There is some minor age-related discolouration, but the vellum has otherwise retained its original creamy, bright colour.

The text is printed on Van Gelder paper by the Curwen Press. Each chapter, or “night,” is marked by coloured stencils depicting astrological and zodiacal designs by T. L. Poulton. The edges are rough-cut. Overall, the pages remain bright and clean, and the binding is secure.

This book is being sold for £100.

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