Monograph of the Land and Freshwater Mollusca of the British Isles. Vol. 1-4

Description:

This work appeared in 24 parts: Vols 1-3 (Pts 1-21, issued 1894-1914); only the first 3 parts of vol. 4 were published, (Pts 22-24, issued 1916-1921). Publication of the fourth volume was delayed by the First World War, with publication suspended temporarily following Pt 23, 'as the difficulties of its production have been so greatly intensified by the war conditions and by the increasing severity of the military requisitions of men and material.' - Announcement printed inside front wrapper. Pt 24 was the final part to be published, in 1921, with the fourth volume remaining unfinished. Among the great merits of this work are: its colour plates and colour distribution maps; detailed descriptions; biographical notes on a large number of malacologists, with their portraits and samples of their handwritings.

Nissen [ZBI 4081] mentions only Vols 1-3.

Condition

Scarce complete set including the first 3 parts of Vol. 4 (all published), which are seldom found. Vols 1-3, roy. 8vo, orig. cloth, gt, teg, minor rubbing. Vol. 4, 3 parts as issued in orig. wrappers, worn, some wrappers detached. Plates in these final parts are intentially loose to allow placement by the binder. Author's signature pasted to endpapers of Vols 1-3. Vg set.