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The Stuart and Mimi Rose Collection /

Charles Darwin

Item 3B

On the Origin of Species

1859
First Edition
Presentation Copy

This book announced to the world Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection. This was the most influential scientific work of the nineteenth century, and perhaps the most important biological work ever written. In 1831, Darwin accepted an offer to embark on a five-year voyage aboard the HMS Beagle, a journey that would change both his life and the trajectory of Western scientific thinking. Puzzled by the geographical distribution of wildlife and fossils he collected on the voyage, Darwin began detailed investigations. By 1838, had devised his theory of natural selection. This presentation copy was given by Darwin to the Swedish botanist Nils Johann Andersson.

An open book showing the title page of
A green hardback book is shown, featuring an intricate embossed cover design with ornate patterns and borders. The spine, partially visible, also has gold text and decorative elements.
An open book displaying an inscription in a neat, cursive handwriting. At the top, it says,
Close-up of the spine of the book

What will you discover next?

Galileo Galilei Dialogo
An intricate brown and beige toned etching features three men in historical attire. The man on the left, bald with a beard, gestures toward the others. The central figure wears a turban. The rightmost man, donned in fur-trimmed clothing and a hat, looks on.

Another singular moment in scientific thought?

Go To Item 11A

Kenneth Grahame The Wind in the Willows
Detail from a dark green hardcover edition of

A much different take on the delights of animal behavior?

Go To Item 12A

Return to the Rose Collection
A vibrant, symmetrical collage features historical black-and-white photographs of three individuals encircled with colorful floral patterns. The background is filled with intricate designs of butterflies and geometric shapes in shades of teal, coral, and beige.

Return to the Rose Collection

Visit the Folger to see this object on exhibit

Imprints in Time

Imprints in Time

This special exhibition at the Folger features rare books from the collection of Stuart and Mimi Rose that present literary, cultural, and historical high points.
Through Sun, Jan 5, 2025
Plan your visit
Rose Exhibition Hall