Shelley, George Ernest

First edition, 4to (315 x 240mm.), dedication leaf, list of plates, 121 hand-coloured lithographed plates by and after J.G. Keulemans, contemporary morocco gilt by Zaehnsdorf, central arms gilt of Gibbs with crest, surrounded by a double gilt fillet surrounded by a semée of ornithological motifs and further fillet and floral borders, spine tooled gilt in 6 compartments with Gibbs crest and ornithological motifs, [Fine Bird Books, p.108; Nissen IVB 873], bookplate and armorial binding of Henry Martin Gibbs, Barrow Court, Flax Bourton, Somerset, some spotting

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."

Only 250 copies of this handsome monograph were printed. Shelley, a nephew of the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley, made several trips to Africa, where this family of birds is found. The author also stresses the importance of the book’s illustrator:

"The illustrations which form such an important portion of my Monograph, have all been executed by Mr. Keulemans, whose name is sufficient guarantee for the accuracy of the details and for high artistic skill. The latter is rendered perhaps more striking from his being acquainted with this family of birds in their native haunts; and his notes upon the sun-birds inhabiting Prince's Island have been incorporated in my work".