< Back

Bewick, Thomas.
History of British Birds [2 volumes].
Publisher: Sol. Hodgson for Beilby & Bewick, Newcastle;
Date of Publication: 1797
Stock Code: 8389
FIRST EDITION. 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. One of only 850 copies in Royal octavo. With the advertisement for the Third Edition of Quadrupeds to verso p. 331 Vol I confirming it as the first issue. Bound in superb maroon half-morocco by Bickers & Son with 5 raised bands, gilt titles to spine and green onlays to compartments, double gilt border to edges; teg. Binding Fine, with just a suspicion of rubbing at corners. Scattered light foxing, mainly to endpapers and edges, otherwise contents clean; no annotation or inscriptions. Overall a Near Fine set. 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 masterpiece in an exceptionally handsome binding. Heavyweight so a contribution towards increased postage costs will be requested for overseas delivery. £1500.00