Chambers, Robert; Explanations: A Sequel to Vestiges of the Natural History of Creation. London, John Churchill 1845. Octavo, pp.vii, 198.

The work is complete and in the original red cloth with gilt titles. Binding has been recased with a matching rear cover. The binding is tight with light soiling to the covers. Light foxing to first few pages. Over all in very good condition.

A Scottish historian, naturalist and geologist, noted author, publisher and member of the Royal Society of Edinburgh, Chambers (1802-1871) remained anonymous in the publication of all editions of the above work up to a later 12th edition. In his original treatise “ Vestiges of the Natural History of Creation” he presented an evolutionary theory of nature that openly challenged the popular view of species as permanent acts of creation. Chambers brought together for the first time a large body of data from geology and the life sciences and applied it to the question of the origin of species. The first edition appeared in 1844 and was immediately followed within a few months by the "Explanations of Vestiages" which answered some of the most vociferous critics, and declared a theory of lateral development, now confirmed by the work of some contemporary scientists. Chambers seemed to anticipate Darwinian theories of evolution. Darwin praised Chamber's work and the role it played in calling attention to evolution.