Antique Prints, Maps, & Books of Natural History, Botanicals, & More
Lot 66881:
Description
This is the first edition, seven volume set with 500 originally hand-colored lithographs of John James Audubon’s
Birds of America. It was published from 1840 to 1844 in New York and Philadelphia by J. B. Chevalier for J. J. Audubon. The work was completed under the direct supervision of J. J. Audubon. The lithography and hand-coloring were completed by J. T. Bowen. The set is bound in dark green half calf, four gilt compartments to spine, all edges gilt, original boards and endpapers.
Prints and thus this beautiful complete set in truly wonderful condition of
Birds of America are amongst the most sought after and collectible of hand-colored American prints. The first edition was the only one to be completed using strictly hand-coloring.
John James Audubon (1785-1851) is perhaps the most famous of early American naturalists.
Birds of America is one of the best examples of hand-colored work in America and is highly collectible.
Paper Size: ~ 10 1/2" by 6 1/4"
Condition report:
The set is in overall good to excellent condition. There are a few scattered marginal stains, occasional light offset, and some mostly light foxing throughout, common to Audubon works, present to about 20-30% of the plates but light for the most part. This is more prevalent to tissue guards and text, and we would suggest having tissue cards removed and new ones laid in. There is a larger, dime-sized stain to plate 445. There is some scuffing to the bindings but solid. The binding is dark green, but a bit faded to black on spines. Please review the images carefully for condition and contact us with any further questions on the work.
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