Sowerby, James.

first edition, 36 volumes, 8vo (232 x 137mm.), 2592 hand-coloured engraved plates (some folding), contemporary half morocco over blue boards, spines gilt, light spotting throughout, a few closed tears (affecting a couple of plates in vol.5 and 9), light creasing to a few plates, covers of vol.36 detached, bindings rubbed and bumped

Russell, armorial bookplate with motto "honorantes me honoro"

Cleveland Herbal 601; Dunthorne 291; Great Flower Books, p.76; Henrey 1366; Hunt 717; Nissen BBI 2225; Stafleu TL2 12.221

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."

This is an intriguing and attractive set of Sowerby's classic English flora that has been occasionally annotated in pencil and supplemented with pressed samples by an early nineteenth-century botanist. The identity of the botanist remains elusive, but there are tantalising glimpses into his life and working method. From his notes (as well as a fragment of newspaper used as a page marker which bears mention of Holt and Lakenham), he was evidently a North Norfolk man. He records Climbing Fumitory in Sheringham Woods, Water Violet in a pit near Stratton Strawless and Bilberry at Weybourne. He initials the second of these entries "HRU" and dates the last 1834. The numerous pressed samples include examples of Slender Spreading Rush, Smooth Tare and Various-leaved Pond-weed.