[NATURAL HISTORY]. BEWICK, Thomas (1753-1828). A History of British Birds. Newcastle: Edward Walker, 1805.

2 volumes, 8vo (254 x 159 mm). (Spotting to frontispieces of both volumes.) Late 19th century full tree calf with five raised bands, morocco lettering pieces, all edges gilt (front hinges starting on both volumes, rubbing, sunning to spine).

PRESENTATION COPY. Described as the first field guide for non-specialists, The History of British Birds was an immediate bestseller, with the entire print run of the first edition selling out by the middle of 1798. Its cultural influence was great, with numerous references made to the work throughout Jane Eyre. The French naturalist François Holandre would later utilize many of Bewick's woodcuts in his own 1800 field guide.

[Tipped in to volume I]: BEWICK. Autograph note signed ("Thomas Bewick") to Matthew Anderson, Esq. dated 17 May 1805, 1 p., which reads, "I have endeavored to supply the wants of your volume as well as I can - but am sorry I could not do so more exactly for I have no sheets of the Imperial paper left - this which I have sent is one of the Royal paper and will do better than none."

Property from the Estate of Peter Fortsas