Lot 2
  • 2

Audubon, John James

Estimate
50,000 - 75,000 USD
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Description

The Birds of America, from Drawings made in the United States and their Territories.  New York and Philadelphia: J. J. Audubon and J. B. Chevalier, [1839–] 1840–1844



7 volumes, in 8s (10  3/8  x 6  1/4  in.; 263 x 158 mm).  500 very fine handcolored lithographed plates after Audubon by W. E. Hitchcock, R. Trembly, and others, printed and colored by J. T. Bowen, numerous wood-engraved anatomical figures in text, cumulative lists of subscribers, half-titles in vols. 3–6.  Contemporary full brown morocco gilt by P. Low (Boston), marbled endleaves; original backstrips worn and laid down, some wear to covers.

Literature

Ayer/Zimmer 22; Freid Appendix A; McGill/Wood 208; Nissen, IVB 51; Reese, American Color Plate Books 34; Sabin 2364

Condition

7 volumes, in 8s (10 3/8 x 6 1/4 in.; 263 x 158 mm). 500 very fine handcolored lithographed plates after Audubon by W. E. Hitchcock, R. Trembly, and others, printed and colored by J. T. Bowen, numerous wood-engraved anatomical figures in text, cumulative lists of subscribers, half-titles in vols. 3–6. Contemporary full brown morocco gilt by P. Low (Boston), marbled endleaves; original backstrips worn and laid down, some wear to covers.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Catalogue Note

First octavo edition.  This set is internally very clean and crisp.  This is also the first complete edition of this monumental and important work.  The double-elephant folio contained only 435 plates; this edition expanded the number to 500, making it the first time that the complete series was printed and offered to the public.