Illustrated Index of British Shells. Containing Figures of All the Recent Species, with Names and other Information

xv, [48], 24 hand-col plates. . HB. 4to, orig. red, blind-stamped cloth, rebacked preserving original backstrip, gilt title to front board, aeg; a few old ink stains to covers. Some foxing/spotting. One plate starting to come loose and standing a little proud at fore edge. Tipped in at rear is a small printed sheet headed 'Natural History Agency Offices, 32, Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury', with notification that 'G.B. Sowerby . has removed his Offices from the Strand to his private residence . where he will receive his patrons and publish his works', also with notice of books available and in preparation. A good copy. First edition. With 24 engraved hand-coloured plates by George Brettingham Sowerby II (1812-1884), British naturalist, illustrator, and conchologist. Each plate with accompanying, unnumbered explanatory leaf of letterpress. Includes marine, terrestrial and freshwater shells.Freeman, 3498; Nissen ZBI, 3911.