A History of British Birds

BEWICK Thomas
History of British Birds - complete 2 volume setThe Figures Engraved on Wood by T. Bewick.

Vol 1. Containing the History and Description of Land Birds. (1821) pp xl + 43-330 pp British Birds + 48 pp Supplement to Vol. I

Vol 2. Containing the History and Description of Water Birds. (1821) pp xxii + 19-360 British Birds + 44 pp Supplement to Vol. II

Newcastle: Printed By Edward Walker, Pilgrim Street, for T. Bewick: Sold By Him and E. Charnley, Newcastle and Longman and Co London, 1821.

Complete two volume set, professionally restored (but pages left uncut) in matching contemporary half calf over marbled boards.
Spine with raised gilt decorative bands, name, title and volume.

Condition; occasional marks to margins, leaf Z2 (p 182)in volume 1 with closed tear archivally repaired without loss, wide margins, partly untrimmed, contemporary diced half calf, later rebacks (endpapers replaced, with previous owner's book plates removed from inner boards).

The-General-History-of-Quadrupeds and the-History-of-British-Birds (this copy) are two of Bewick's most important works. A complete description of his work as an engraver, however, comprises two entire volumes (1867- 68). Bewick's third great work, was the Fables of Aesop. Bewick produced wood engravings to decorate, illustrate, and enhance all manner of publications.

A must have for the Thomas Bewick collector. Also other works of Bewicks available; just see my other adds.