[MATHEMATICS] FIRST BOOK IN ENGLISH ON ALGEBRA. RECORDE, ROBERT. c.1510-1558. Whetstone of Witte. London: John Kingston, 1557. 4to (185 x 132 mm). Lacking 2 folding tables R1(-4) and DDD3, and textual leaf Iii. Early calf, rebacked, some staining to 2nd half of work. Provenance: Anah Dunsheath, Auckland, NZ (pencil inscription). RARE FIRST EDITION OF THE FIRST BOOK IN ENGLISH ON ALGEBRA AND THE CREATION OF THE EQUAL SIGN ('='). A foundational book in the history of mathematics, Robert Recorde's Whetstone of Witte discusses in depth the 'Cossike Arte,' the first introduction of algebra in the English language. From the Italian 'cosa,' which in Italy was used to denote the unknown quantity in an algebraic equation, the concept of algebra became known in English as the Cossike practice, or art. Under the heading 'The rule of equation, commonly called Algeber's rule,' he introduces, 'But now will I teach you that rule that is the principal in cossick works, and for which all the others do serve. This rule is called the rule of Algeber, after the name of the inventor as some men think: or by a name of singular excellence, as others judge. But of his use it is rightly called, the rule of equation: bicause that by equation of nombers, it doth dissolve doubtful questions: And unfolde intricate ridles.' 'Algeber' was not the name of the inventor, but from the Arabic title of al-Khowârizmî's c.825 treatise Hisab al-jabr w'al muqabalah. Recorde also contributes the first use in any language of the equals sign as two parallel lines ('='): 'And to avoide the tediouse repetition of these woordes: is equalle to: I will sette as I doe often in worke use, a paire of paralleles, or Gemowe from the Latin gemellus lines of one lengthe, thus: = , bicause noe .2. thynges, can be moare equalle.' This important work in the history of mathematics is exceedingly rare. Dibner Heralds of Science 104, note; Norman 1808; Smith, Rara Arithmetica, p 286; STC 20820; Tomash & Williams R44. For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com For further information about this lot please visit the lot listing