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Bewick, Thomas.
History of British Birds. The Figures Engraved on Wood by T. Bewick.
Publisher: Sol. Hodgson for Beilby & Bewick, Newcastle;
Date of Publication: 1797
Stock Code: 11945
First Edition of both volumes. Royal octavo, pp. [4], [iii]-335, [1]; xx, 400. Vol I with 117 figures of birds and 91 tail-pieces; Vol II with 101 figures of birds, 136 tailpieces. Vol. I is one of only 850 thick Royal Paper copies, (with the advertisement for the Third Edition of Quadrupeds to verso p. 335 confirming it as the true first 1797 printing) and Vol. II is one of only 900 thick Royal Paper copes. Bound in superb forest green full morocco with 5 raised bands, gilt titles and decoration to spine, double gilt fillet to edges; all edges gilt. Spines lightly sunned. Armorial bookplate of Lawrence W. Adamson to front paste-down, with “Braithwaite” inscribed to lower margin; a little scattered light foxing otherwise contents clean. A near fine set in a very handsome morocco binding. The forerunner of all modern field guides Bewick’s ‘History of British Birds’ changed the public’s perception of the natural world; it is a landmark in natural history illustration and is one of the most important illustrated books ever printed. This is the first edition of Bewick’s magnum opus in an exceptionally handsome binding. Heavyweight so a contribution towards increased postage costs will be requested for overseas delivery. £850.00