Hebenstreit, Johann Ernest.

first edition, 5 parts in one volume, folio (388 x 245mm.), half-title, title printed in red and black with engraved publisher's device, dedication leaf, engraved headpieces, divisional titles, main text in two columns in Latin and German, double-page engraved plate of the museum, 17 engraved plates, contemporary calf, spine gilt, lacking portrait, occasional slight browning, joints and spine somewhat worn

Sinkankas 2831; Ward & Carozzi 1033; Wilson p.94-95

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

A privately published catalogue of the "splendid cabinet of natural curiosities" (Sinkankas) of Johann Richter as described by the medical doctor and polymath Johann E. Hebenstreit. Richter was a wealthy banker and merchant whose passion for collecting was guided by Johann Platner, a professor at Leipzig. His large mineralogical and natural history collection consisted of over 2,300 mineralogical specimens, including many of silver and silver-containing minerals. Almost an equal number of biological specimens are described in this massive catalogue. The last part of the work is devoted to the cameo gemstones of classical antiquity in the Richter Museum, described by Johann F. Crist. The collection was dispersed after his death in 1751. The work is scarce, ABPC recording only three other copies at auction since 1977.