Volta, Giovanni Serafina

First edition, bound in 2 volumes, folio (520 x 370mm.), text in Italian and Latin, 76 engraved plates, 19 folding (double-page or larger), by Joseph Bufetti and Leonardus Manzatti, later half vellum, [Nissen ZBI 4289]

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 greatest work on fossil fish to date, with outstanding illustrations. This work was the most important precursor of Agassiz's great Recherches sur les possions fossiles (1883-43). Agassiz in fact wrote his own appreciation of Volta's great work in the Recherches ("Revue critique des poissons fossiles figures dans I'lttiolitologia Veronese", Recherches, 4:35-52). Volta describes the fossil fish collections of the Museo Bozziano, comprising the collections of Count Giovambattista Gazzola and others, which he had acquired. The 123 species were from Monta Bolca near Verona. They were subsequently removed by Napoleon's army and taken to Paris, and are now to be found in the Museum d'Histoire Naturelle.