Johann Nathanael Pezold (1739-1813)

Johann Pezold was born in Leipzig in 1739. He trained as a doctor, qualifying in 1762. He settled in Dresden in 1766 and his reputation grew. He published a number of medical works and translations, and the German poet Novalis (Friedrich von Hardenberg) was among his patients. He died in Dresden in 1813.

Pezold was also a notable book collector and assembled an extensive library which included not only medical text but also many contemporary European publications and a significant number of early printed works as well as prints and historical documents and other manuscripts. After his death, his library was sold at auction in Leipzig – the volume held by Leeds University Library is recorded on page 30 of the sale catalogue.