The Art of Invention: Patent Models and Their Makers

by William Ray

First edition. An illustrated history of the patent process in the United States, showing hand-made, working models of inventions. Included are models of printing presses invented by William Bullock, George Clymer, Robert and Richard Hoe, Alonzo and Bolivar Newbury, and James Phelps. Full descriptions of each invention, with comments by the authors on the patent process. Dust jacket torn at top of spine, and slightly worn at top and bottom. Bookplate on free endpaper. xii, 132 pages in addition to 16 leaves of color plates. cloth, dust jacket.. 4to..

132 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1974

Reviews

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This wonderful book is more than just glossy photos of patent models, although it has some lovely photographs. The writer puts the models in context, expanding our understanding of their importance (and in some cases frivalence) by explaining the history of the invention and how it fits into the landscape. The book begins with a thorough yet concise review of the American patent system in the 19th century. The following chapters are arranged by topic, including: household items, weapons, agriculture, tools, and absurdities. Several notable inventions are featured, including that of of Abraham Lincoln, the only president to have been granted a patent.