Books

One of only 250 In New condition and still boxed. A most fantastic 1972 set of two 'double elephant folio' sized volumes, comprising facsimile plates from the drawings of John James Audubon originally printed in 1827-1838. The set of the folio from which the reproductions in this two-volume edition of facsimiles are made is that in the collection of the Meiningen State Museum, of a Folio edition limited to 250 copies, numbered 501-750. From the total edition of 1000. Halflinen boards with a copyright page hand-numbered and signed by J. A. C. Roberts, Director of Ariel Press. Introduction by Gottfried Mauersberger. Forty species are detailed in total, with twenty subjects to each volume. The condition is as follows. Vol. I: White cloth with cream-tanned boards and gold ink to front. As New condition, still in the original box. Vol. II: Blue cloth with tan boards. As new still boxed Overall a perfect set with the unusually large double-elephant sizing providing a great chance to pore over Audubon's famed drawings in an immersive experience. A new condition.

"The Birds of America" is a monumental work by John James Audubon, published as a series between 1827 and 1838. It is one of the most famous and celebrated ornithological works in the world, known for its life-size, hand-colored, engraved plates of birds from the United States. Audubon's work stands out for its combination of artistic beauty and scientific accuracy. The collection features 435 plates, depicting more than 700 bird species, many of which were being documented for the first time. Audubon employed a unique method of mounting dead birds in natural positions on wires as a reference, which helped him create more dynamic illustrations. His attention to detail and commitment to depicting birds in their natural habitats made "The Birds of America" not only a major scientific achievement but also an artistic masterpiece. Audubon's work had a significant impact on ornithology and art in the 19th century, contributing to the burgeoning interest in bird study and conservation in America and Europe. The original editions of "The Birds of America" are among the most sought-after and valuable books in the world, prized by collectors and institutions for their historical and aesthetic value.