Catesby, Mark.

Third edition, 2 volumes, folio (537 x 368mm.), titles and text in English and French, double-page hand-coloured engraved map, 216 hand-coloured etched plates (only, of 220), by and after Catesby and mostly signed with his cipher apart from three plates by George Ehret in the second volume, contemporary straight-grained green morocco gilt, spines gilt in seven compartments, red morocco lettering-pieces, gilt edges, lacks plates 15, 39, 44, and 46, plate 85 browned, binding somewhat rubbed at extremities and with minor repairs

Lady Victoria Alexandrina Mary Cecil Herbert (1874-1957), bookplate

Anker 95; Fine Bird Books, p.65; Great Flower Books, p.53; Wood, p.282; Sabin 11059

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

a finely-coloured copy of the third edition of Catesby's "fundamental and original work for the study of American species" (Hunt 486, on the first edition).

Trained as a botanist, Catesby travelled to Virginia in 1712 and remained there for seven years, sending collections of plants and seeds back to England. With the encouragement of Sir Hans Sloane and others, Catesby returned to America in 1722 to seek materials for his Natural History; he travelled extensively in Carolina, Georgia, Florida and the Bahamas, sending back further specimens. His preface provides a lengthy account of the development of his work, including his decision to study with Joseph Goupy in order to learn to etch his plates himself to ensure accuracy and economy.