PERON, VOYAGE DE DECOUVERTES AUX TERRES AUSTRALES, 1807-[1811]

First edition, 2 volumes, comprising text volume 1 (only, of 2), 4to (305 x 230mm.) and atlas volume (part 1 only), folio (355 x 267mm.), text with half-title, and errata at end, atlas (part 1 only, see Sothebys.com), with engraved title, 4pp. printed text, and 38 engraved plates (one double-page, some hand-coloured), text in original blue wrappers, atlas in modern half morocco, blue cloth boards, new endpapers, without volume 2 of text, lacking plates/maps 1, 15, and 39 (but with additional plate 41, not listed in the index), a few plates repaired, upper wrapper of text bowed

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 narrative of the voyage, during which the commander Baudin died, was begun by Peron, the naturalist, and completed by Freycinet after Peron had also died. The voyage made significant visits to Western Australia and Tasmania as well as to Sydney, and took back to France an important collection of natural history specimens. The atlas contains fine, and often coloured, illustrations of coastal profiles, natives, natural history, views, etc., though it does not contain, as is sometimes the case, the second part with the folding maps and plans.