Darwin, Charles.

8vo (232 x 147mm.), first edition, second issue, half-title, folding map, 8pp. publisher's catalogue at end dated August 1839, followed by a smaller slip advertising The Zoology of the Voyage of H.M.S. Beagle and Geological Observations, original brown cloth decorated in blind, spine sunned, two corners bumped

Charles Forbes, Edinburgh, bookseller's ticket; John Boyd, bookplate

Freeman 11 binding variant b

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."

This is the first separate appearance of Darwin's first book. In the same year it was part of the three-volume account of the Beagle's voyages, co-written with Captains King and Fitzroy (see lot 34).

"His first published book is undoubtedly the most often read and stands only to On the Origin of Species [see lot 35] as the most often printed. It is an important travel book in its own right and its relation to the background of his evolutionary ideas has often been stressed" (Freeman, p.31).