[Perrault, Charles]

first edition, folio (521 x 410mm.), engraved device on title incorporating the royal arms of Louis XIV, 15 engraved plates by Le Clerc, one engraved illustration in the text, engraved tailpieces, contemporary russia gilt, spine lettered gilt "Cabinet du Roy", without the frontispiece found in some copies, spine rubbed, joints cracked

Hans Sloane, engraved armorial bookplate

Garrison-Morton 295; Nissen ZBI 3123 (seemingly incorrectly calling for 16 plates); Norman 1687

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."

sir hans sloane's copy of the second part of Perrault's influential work of comparative anatomy, and "one of the most sumptuously produced of all early biological works" (Garrison-Morton). The first part, Mémoires pour server à l'histoire naturelle des animaux, appeared in 1671. In the Suite, the ostrich is described in detail for the first time.