Gould, John.

First edition, 7 volumes, folio (560 x 370mm.), list of subscribers, lists of plates, 530 hand-coloured lithographed plates by Gould, H.C. Richter, Joseph Wolf, and W. Hart, printed by Hullmandel & Walton, T. Walter, or Walter & Cohn, bound as issued with temporary titles to the first 6 volumes, and the main titles and preliminary matter at the end of the final volume, contemporary half morocco gilt, occasional spotting, boards soiled in places

Sir Thomas Hesketh, 3rd Bt. (1777-1842), Rufford Hall, Lancashire, bookplate, thence by descent; Easton Neston Library, book label

Anker 178; Fine Bird Books, p.78; Nissen IVB 368; Sauer 17; Wood, p.365; Zimmer, p.258

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."

The most comprehensive work on Asiatic species of its time, containing illustrations of many birds not previously described.

This great undertaking was published in thirty-five parts and took thirty-four years to produce, Gould dying before its completion. The last three parts were issued by Richard Bowdler Sharpe and William Hart, the latter becoming artist as well as lithographer. The work was dedicated to the Honourable East India Company, and five hundred and thirty species were illustrated. Joseph Wolf executed twenty-four plates for Gould in the early stages of the project, mostly birds of prey, pheasants and partridges. Other birds depicted include owls, woodpeckers, kingfishers, trogons, sunbirds, parrots and parakeets. Two hundred and seven sets were subscribed for, if not completed.