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Bergeron 3-volume Manuel du Tourneur

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Nov 28, 2023
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Royal Oak, MI
Hello everyone.

Dose anyone know where I can find a English translated copy of this ?
I found some photo's from this book that I want to know more...

Thank you.

C.A.G.
 

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Hi Curt

Gemini said….

The three-volume Manuel du Tourneur by L.-E. Bergeron is a seminal work on ornamental turning, first published in 1792. It is considered one of the most important books on the subject, and its influence can still be seen in the work of woodturners today.


The book is a comprehensive guide to the art of ornamental turning, covering everything from the basic tools and techniques to the most complex designs. It includes detailed instructions on how to make a variety of objects, such as spindles, finials, and eggs. The book is also full of illustrations and diagrams that help to make the instructions clear and easy to follow.


Bergeron's book was translated into English in 1816 by Thomas P. Barlow, but this translation is now out of print. There is also an incomplete translation of the first volume available online. However, there is no complete English translation of the entire book currently available.


Despite the lack of a complete English translation, the Manuel du Tourneur is still a valuable resource for woodturners who are interested in learning about ornamental turning. The book is well-written and easy to understand, and the illustrations are still relevant today.


Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:


  • A Bibliography of The Art of Turning by Abell, Leggat, & Ogden: This book includes a complete list of all known editions of the Manuel du Tourneur.
  • Circuitous Root: This website has a wealth of information on ornamental turning, including an article on Bergeron's book.
  • The Galpin Society Journal: This journal has published several articles on the history of ornamental turning,including one on Bergeron's book.
 
Thank you Vitor

I have read a number of books on Ornamental turning over the years. (I am just a hobbyist with high goals.) I want to lean as much as I can.

What draws me to this book, is the machines he is using is un-like any that I have seen before.
The differences of what I've seen first hand and what I see in this book, makes me want more about the equipment, and how it differs form what I
have seen.
Knowledge is a endless quest, but finding out how to use a new tool is an Adventure that I have to follow. ;-)

Thank you for your reply, and insights about this book.

Have a great day.

C.A.G.
 
I found this digital version of the English translation (assuming you are after the knowledge and not necessarily the physical book). There are a couple print on demand copies listed on Abe books as well as one original of the 1877 translation.

Thank you so very much for this link. I found what I was looking for. the section on working Ivory and Bone. There is a lot of good info. In these pages, I will read more as soon as I can. But for now I found what I was looking for.
Thank you again.

C.A.G.
 
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