Italian physicist (1745–1827) best known for his epochal investigations into the nature and uses of electricity. The unit denoting the potential difference or electromotive force was named the volt in his honor. Scarce ADS, in Italian, one page, 7.5 x 9, December 16, 1788. A handwritten receipt. In part (translated): “Received from the lawyer Don Cammillo Volta charged by the Royal Library of Mantua in Milan as settlement of the last 10 issues that conclude the big work on fishes by Bloch. As certification….” Volta signs as “Alessandro Volta, Royal Professor” and adds the date and place (Pavia). The published work Volta refers to was likely Natural History of Fish in Germany by the prominent ichthyologist Marcus Eliezer Bloch, which was ultimately incorporated into the 12-volume General Natural History of Fish (completed 1795), and which in turn became the principal reference of its kind. In fine condition, with intersecting folds, light toning, and a pinhole or two. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
