Darwin, Charles.

8vo, 2 volumes, first edition, second issue (one of 2,000 copies), with list of works by the author on verso of title of volume 2 (and no errata) and with p.297 of volume 1 reset (first word "When"), 16pp. of advertisements dated January 1871 at the end of both volumes, illustrations, original green cloth, upper and lower covers decorated in blind, spines lettered in gilt, brown endpapers, some spotting, hinges and head and base of spines repaired, extremities of binding with some wear



"The Descent, understood by Darwin as a sequel to the Origin, was written with a maturity and depth of learning that marked Darwin's status as an élite gentleman of science.....the Descent of Man brought the full force of evolutionary proposals directly into the heart of ordinary Victorian life...." (Adrian Desmond, James Moore, and Janet Browne, Oxford DNB)

Freeman 938

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, when 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."

"The Descent, understood by Darwin as a sequel to the Origin, was written with a maturity and depth of learning that marked Darwin's status as an élite gentleman of science. Despite its title, less than half of the book dealt with mankind. Some two-thirds was devoted to a description of sexual selection in the animal kingdom...Darwin also set out a definite family tree for humans, tracing their affinity with the Old World monkeys...the Descent of Man brought the full force of evolutionary proposals directly into the heart of ordinary Victorian life. It sold more than 5000 copies within a year and provoked numerous press caricatures, cartoons, articles, and commentaries. A second edition appeared in 1874 and eight translations were published during Darwin's lifetime." (Adrian Desmond, James Moore, and Janet Browne, Oxford DNB)