The Natural History of British Shells. London: F.C. and J. Rivington, 1799-1804. 5 volumes. 4to (227 x 140 mm). Numerous hand-colored engraved plates. Contemporary calf, black morocco spine labels, gilt decorations on covers and spines. Joints repaired, slight offsetting, scattered foxing. FIRST EDITION. Although he never left the British Isles, Donovan was an avid amateur naturalist who created beautiful illustration from his own specimens and those of other collectors. Although his publications were successful, his reliance on specimens proved too costly, and the sale of his collection only worsened his situation, leading to an unsuccessful lawsuit against his publisher, Rivington, and ultimately his financial ruin. Nissen ZBI 1147.
The Natural History of British Shells. London: F.C. and J. Rivington, 1799-1804. 5 volumes. 4to (227 x 140 mm). Numerous hand-colored engraved plates. Contemporary calf, black morocco spine labels, gilt decorations on covers and spines. Joints repaired, slight offsetting, scattered foxing. FIRST EDITION. Although he never left the British Isles, Donovan was an avid amateur naturalist who created beautiful illustration from his own specimens and those of other collectors. Although his publications were successful, his reliance on specimens proved too costly, and the sale of his collection only worsened his situation, leading to an unsuccessful lawsuit against his publisher, Rivington, and ultimately his financial ruin. Nissen ZBI 1147.
.jpg "Source: Christie's")
.jpg "Source: Christie's")
.jpg "Source: Christie's")
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.jpg "Source: Christie's")
.jpg "Source: Christie's")
