This like-new first printing is near fine, no marks, pages are tight and near fine, the book is tight, square, and unmarked. The dust jacket is unmarked, beige cloth boards, and bright gilt lettering on the spine of the book. The Arcanum recounts the gripping quest of European craftsmen, scientists, and alchemists to unlock the secret formula (arcanum) for true porcelain, a craft long guarded by China. At its center is Johann Friedrich Böttger, an alchemist whose search unexpectedly led him to a groundbreaking role in European porcelain production. The story unfolds largely in Meissen, Germany, where Böttger ultimately succeeded in creating Europe’s first true hard-paste porcelain, leading to the founding of the world-famous Meissen porcelain manufactory in 1710. Janet Gleeson is a British historian specializing in 18th-century Europe.

This beautiful Folio edition is in pristine, unread condition with tight, immaculate pages. Please note, no dust jacket or slipcase is included. Machiavelli’s The Prince has influenced generations of thinkers—from Hobbes and Rousseau to Napoleon. Still widely studied, it explores power, leadership, and human nature. Though seemingly direct, its intent remains debated: some view it as practical advice for rulers; others see it as satire or a critique of political corruption in Renaissance Italy.

A well-preserved first printing in pristine condition, with no markings. The dust jacket is equally well-kept. Decision at the Chesapeake is a historical analysis of the pivotal naval engagement during the American Revolutionary War—the Battle of the Chesapeake. Fought on September 5, 1781, between French and British fleets, this decisive battle played a critical role in securing the British surrender at Yorktown. The book has been praised for its meticulous research and compelling narrative.

This lovely softcover edition is in fine condition with no marks or tears and shows absolutely minimal shelf wear. This book is a collection of essays and travel writings by Edith Wharton, compiled and edited by Sarah Bird Wright. This collection provides insights into her reactions to diverse cultures, landscapes, and historical sites, highlighting her wit, perceptiveness, and appreciation for art and architecture. The essays capture both her personal reflections and cultural critiques, including her experiences in places like Italy, France, and Morocco. Wharton's writing in these pieces combines her love of detailed description with her social insights, giving readers a glimpse into the experiences and reflections that shaped her worldview and, subsequently, her novels.

Signed, like-new first printing hardcover in near fine condition. No marks; pages are tight and appear unread. The book is tight, square, and unmarked. Dust jacket is clean, with grey cloth boards and red lettering on the spine. Lincoln's Other White House: The Untold Story of the Man and His Presidency by Elizabeth Smith Brownstein (2005) explores Abraham Lincoln’s time at the Soldiers' Home, a quiet retreat three miles from the White House. Drawing on archival research, the book reveals how this refuge shaped Lincoln’s leadership during the Civil War, offering a personal glimpse into the man behind the presidency.

This softcover edition is in near fine condition with no marks or tears and shows absolutely minimal shelf wear. The pages are tight, appear unread, and the book is tight, square, and unmarked. Food of the Gods: The Search for the Original Tree of Knowledge – A Radical History of Plants, Drugs, and Human Evolution is a non-fiction book by ethnobotanist Terence McKenna, first published in 1992. The book examines the historical relationship between humans and psychoactive plants, proposing a radical hypothesis about their potential role in human evolution, culture, and consciousness.