CABINET OF NATURAL HISTORY, AND AMERICAN RURAL SPORTS
J. & T. Doughty. 1830 & 1833 Philadelphia, 1st edn, 298pp & 292pp, frontises, engraved title vignettes, illus., 48 plates (all but one hand-colored). Rebound in period 3/4 dark green leather, 5 hubs and gilt letters on spine, marbled boards and end papers. Foxing throughout both volumes, on some sections noticeably. Item #008075
The Doughtys' Cabinet" is a collection of natural history, sporting accounts, travel narratives, and practical advice for the countryman. It is said to be the first major book issued in the United States to be illustrated with hand-colored lithographic plates. Volume I: Contains a portrait of Charles Willson Peale, plates of animals such as the common deer, red fox, and ruffed grouse, and topics like "Trout of the Brook and Lake" and "Woodcock Shooting". Volume II: Features numerous plates of American birds and includes entries on animals like the meadow-lark and snow bird, grizzly bears, and swans. The publication also includes various natural history entries, such as "Blue Bird and Robin," "Woodcock Shooting," "Goosander and Golden Eye," and "Wild Swan," and various other essays on rural life and natural history topics. Originally issued in soft cover parts to be taken to a bindery by the owner.
Price: $4,000.00