Siris: A Chain of Philosophical Reflexions and Inquiries Concerning the Virtues of Tar Water by BERKELEY, George (1685-1753) - 1744

London: W. Innys and C. Hitch, 1744. Second (first London) edition. Repairs to binding; title slightly soiled, ink inscriptions in Greek on rear flyleaves, a handsome copy/From the Collection of Allan B. Kirsner, M.D. 8vo. 174, [2] pp. Near-contemporary vellum-backed marbled boards. Berkeley's most popular work, espousing the myriad uses of tar water to treat everything from fevers to cancers, from infant to elderly, and from human to animal. "The work begins as an investigation of the medicinal virtues of tar-water and ends with a disquisition on Platonic philosophy - a blend of science and metaphysics. While in America, Berkeley experimented with tar-water for many ailments, including dysentery, rheumatism and asthma. The treatment proved so successful that he set up an apparatus for manufacturing it" (Rootenberg). Blake 43; ESTC N12567; Keynes 64; Kress 4685; Wellcome II:149.