Walcott, John

2 volumes, 4to (210 x 165mm.), 255 half-page etched plates by Peter Mazell, near-contemporary half calf, [Jackson, Bird Etchings, pp.148-156; Mullens and Swan, p.607; Nissen ZBI 966; Zimmer, p.660], bookplate of Madelaine Jay

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."

Walcott (1754/5-1831) was a west-country naturalist and artist. His watercolours are preserved at Yale University Library. “The book is now very scarce… Edward Donovan, the nineteenth-century naturalist and author, stated that the work was then already scarce when he wished to purchase it (he died in 1837)” (Jackson, Bird Etchings).