[BOYDELL], A HISTORY OF THE PRINCIPAL RIVERS OF GREAT BRITAIN, 1794-1796 [PLATES WATERMARKED 1827]

2 volumes bound in 3, folio (415 x 310mm.), 76 finely hand-coloured aquatint plates (3 double-page), map on 2 double-page engraved sheets, one plain engraved plate of "Father Thames", EXTRA-ILLUSTRATED with 101 portraits (see footnote), contemporary straight-grained green morocco gilt, gilt edges, without some preliminary leaves ("second" title to volume 1, "first title" to volume 2, dedication to the Earl of Orford, and both plate lists), some leaves spotted or becoming detached, short tear in plate at p.31 (volume 2) repaired, binding rubbed

Sale in these rooms, 4 November 2014, lot 79

Abbey, Scenery 432

Condition is described in the main body of the catalogue, 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 portraits are from Thomas Birch's Heads of Illustrious Persons of Great Britain, first published by John and Paul Knapton in 1743-1751. The colour of the plates, which is sometimes muted and dull, is here bright and vibrant.