Levaillant, François.

First edition, 2 volumes, folio (515 x 330mm.), half-titles, 114 engraved plates, 2 folding, printed in colours and finished by hand, after Jacques Barraband, contemporary straight-grained red morocco gilt in the style of Bozerian, the covers with wide borders gilt of ornamental flowers enclosing a single fillet panel with large ornaments gilt at corners, flat spines gilt in compartments, [Fine Bird Books, p.90; Nissen IVB 559; Ronsil 1780], some plates restored at foot, one folding plate creased and with a small repair, binding refurbished

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."

A finely-bound, large copy of one of the most spectacular works on exotic birds. This was Levaillant's last, finest work, considered by Ronsil to be without rival among French bird books. The plates were printed by Langlois, whose pioneering techniques in colour printing were also used in much of Redouté's best work.

See catalogue frontispiece for an illustration of the binding.