LEGENDRE, Adrien-Marie. Essai sur la théorie des nombres.
Paris, Duprat, An VI [1798]
First edition of the first textbook on number theory and one of the most important mathematical works of the 18th century. Kline: “The theory of numbers in the 18th century remained a series of disconnected results. The most important works on the subject were Euler’s *Anleitung zur Algebra* (1770) and Legendre’s *Essai sur la théorie des nombres* (1798).” A seminal and pioneering work in which Legendre (1752–1833) presents his discovery of quadratic reciprocity, which Gauss would later describe as the “jewel of arithmetic.” Another discovery is the law of the distribution of prime numbers.
Legendre (1752–1833) was one of the great French mathematicians active during the pre- and post-Revolutionary periods, making significant contributions to number theory, statistics, mathematical analysis, and algebra.
The book begins with an introduction to general concepts of numbers and is divided into four parts: Part I on indeterminate analysis and continued fractions; Part II on the general properties of prime numbers; Part III on numbers considered to be expressible as the sum of three squares; and Part IV on various methods and investigations, followed by substantial additions and eleven numerical tables (including a table of prime numbers less than 1,000).
Legendre formulated the law of quadratic reciprocity in its modern form in 1785 and proved part of it; Gauss, in 1801, was the first to provide a complete proof, and over the course of his life he gave no fewer than eight different proofs. A rare first edition of Legendre’s seminal treatise on number theory, a milestone in 18th-century mathematics.
Norman 1325; DSB VIII, pp. 135-143.
In 4to. 250x190 mm. Contemporary mottled calf binding, gilt corners on bindings, smooth spine with gilt decorations and gilt title with red Morocco on label, marbled end papers. Pp. XXII, including half title and title page, [2, Errata], 472, [56]. Defects on binding, internally occasional very slight foxing, good specimen.