A History of British Birds. Vol. I-III [and] Supplement

Description:

Illustrated with attractive woodcuts of each species. 1st edition. Originally published in 37 bi-monthly parts between 1837 and 1843. A bibliographically interesting copy with text bound as issued, with temporary title pages for Vols I + II - the final title pages for these volumes bound, as issued, at the end of Vol. III, along with preliminary material and index. Vol. I + II both include the single-leaf 'Temporary Index to English Names' at the rear. Also present at the end are supplementary pages, for Vol. I: 268*/269*, 316*/317*, 420*/421*, and Vol. II: 232*/233*. 16-page 'Illustrated Catalogue of the Works Published by John Van Voorst', dated May 1843, bound at rear of Vol. III, with orig. buff, printed wrappers (Price One Shilling). The entry in this catalogue for 'British Birds' states, 'To suit the convenience of Purchasers, the work will still be sold in Parts at 2s. 6d. each; or in Vols. - Vol. I. price 28s. Vol. II. 35s. Vol. III. 30s.'

The preface to the Supplement states: 'In order, as far as practicable, to make original editions of the History of British Birds equal to the second, this Supplement, containing figures and descriptions of the species obtained since the publication of the first edition, has been prepared.'

Freeman, 4177; Mullens & Swann, p. 670.

Condition

4 vols, dmy 8vo, orig. cloth, minor wear, orig. printed paper title pieces to spines of Vols I-III (with some loss), gilt spine title to Supplement. Vol. III, hinges cracked but firm. Vols I-III with light stain to rear endpapers and pastedowns. Book-plate of H.C. Embleton to each volume.