[Besler, Basilius.

Third edition, folio (535 x 430mm.), 366 engraved plates (only, of 367), contemporary calf over wooden boards with metal bosses, [Hunt, 430; Nissen BBI 158], first c.18 plates very worn or defective affecting image, and with dampstaining, wear diminishing over the next c.20 leaves, some marginal wear elsewhere, generally not affecting images, one plate torn extending into image, lacks all preliminaries, including title and portrait, lacks two other text leaves and one plate, binding defective, spine missing, covers detached; sold as a collection of plates, not subject to return

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."

Besler's monumental work commemorated the famous gardens of the Prince Bishop of Eichstätt, Johann Conrad von Gemmingen (c.1561-1612), and was the earliest pictorial record of flowers from a single garden. This edition, commenced in 1713, is printed from the same plates as the first edition.