Bidspirit auction | Ephraim Chambers & Abraham Rees

Ephraim Chambers & Abraham Rees – Set of 2 Gunnery Plates from Cyclopaedia: An Universal Dictionary of Arts and Sciences – Copperplate Engravings (1784–1788) - These two plates illustrate the “Gunnery” entry in the fifth (plate) volume of Cyclopaedia, originally compiled by Ephraim Chambers and later expanded by Abraham Rees. Plate I depicts artillery ordnance and tools: front and side views of a howitzer and mortar, a sap‐petard, the gunner’s quadrant for measuring elevation, and key loading implements (searcher, reliever, sponge ; rammer). Plate II details the disassembled field‐gun barrel, spherical bombs with fuses, proportional compasses for charge calculation, a sectional view of a gun‐carriage shed, the carriage frame, breeching tackle, and related accoutrements. Together, these engravings served as a concise technical manual for 18th‐century military engineers and artillery officers, combining clarity of mechanical drawing with practical reference tables.Ephraim Chambers (c.1680–1740) produced the first English general encyclopedia in 1728, setting a new standard for accessible, alphabetically arranged knowledge. His work was widely celebrated for its breadth and clarity. Abraham Rees (1743–1825) later undertook a major revision and expansion (1784–1788), incorporating the latest scientific and technical advancements into an enlarged Cyclopaedia, which became one of the most influential reference works of the Enlightenment.Artist or Maker:Ephraim Chambers ; Abraham Rees (editors/publishers)Dimensions:Each 21 cm × 28 cmMedium:Copperplate Engravings on paperDate:1784–1788Condition Report:This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.