VENTENAT. DESCRIPTION DES PLANTES. [1800-03]

Folio (328 x 245mm.), half-title, dedication leaf, commentary leaf by Cels, 100 engraved plates, by P.J. Redouté, Cloquet, Laneau, Maréchal and Sauvage, each complimented with a sheet of descriptive text, 2pp. table at end, contemporary blue half calf gilt, text leaf 58 with lower corner missing (not affecting text), a few leaves becoming detached, some minor marginal wormholes at end, scattered stains, binding slightly worn

Libreria Antiquaria Mediolanum, Milano, bookseller's ticket

Great Flower Books, p.79; Nissen, 2048

Condition is described in the main body of the catalogue, 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 fine study of plants in the gardens of Jacques Philippe Martin Cels in Paris. Cels possessed one of the finest commercial nurseries in Europe, a place where he sold and collected rare plants. 100 rare plants are described and illustrated in this publication, including specimens from North America, Africa, the Near East and the Pacific. Some of the lustrous illustrations are depictions of Australian plants gathered on Antoine d’Entrecasteaux’s exploratory voyage.