[APPLIED ARTS - TEXTILES]
BANCROFT, EDWARD. Experimental Researches Concerning The Philosophy of Permanent Colors; and the Best Means of Producing Them, by Dyeing, Calico Printing, &c. Philadelphia: Thomas Dobson, 1814. 2 volumes, first American edition. Contemporary sheep, inconspicuously rebacked, spine gilt ruled and lettered with red title labels. 8 1/4 x 4 7/8 inches (21 x 12.5 cm); Volume I: [4], xlv, [3], 401 pp.; Volume II: [4], 39a4 pp. Boards worn and scuffed, skillfully rebacked, hinges reinforced, contents lightly toned with occasional light spotting and dampstaining, signature of James Biddle, U.S. Navy, to both titles.

An important work on color and fabric dyeing, by the American chemist Edward Bancroft. The author made several discoveries in the field of textile dyes, most notably a yellow derived from the bark of the American black oak tree. This copy belonged to Commodore James Biddle, a member of the prominent Philadelphia Biddle family, who completed the first treaty between China and the United States, and whose attempt at a similar treaty (well in advance of Perry's successful effort) was rebuffed by the Tokugawa shogunate.