PBA Galleries

2 volumes. [2], xxx, 335, [1] ad; xx, 400 pp. Profusely illustrated throughout with wood engravings by Thomas Bewick. 9x5½, modern half calf & marbled boards, spines ruled in gilt, raised bands, morocco lettering pieces, new endpapers. Second Edition of Vol. I, First Edition of Vol. II. Royal Paper copies.

Following on his General History of Quadrupeds, Bewick continued his examination of natural history subjects, limiting himself in this instance to British birds he could observe. Ray calls this work "his masterpiece with respect both to craftsmanship and creative imagination." The first volume, Land Birds, "Printed by Sol. Hodgson for Beilby & Bewick...1797," the second, Water Birds, "Printed by Edwin Walker for T. Bewick...1804." Ray, England, 51