A History of British Quadrupeds, Including the Cetacea.
London: John Van Voorst, 1837. Illustrated with over 200 woodcuts and numerous drawings throughout executed by Dickes and Vasey. First edition. Rebound full diced calf, gilt rules and gilt decorated compartments, black spine label ("Bell's British Beasts"), all edges marbled, marbled endpapers. Octavo. [vii]-xviii, 526. 8" x 5.75" Two period bookplates (Francis Wedgwood; Arthur Parson) front pastedown, prelims and rear endpapers foxed, horizontal split top of spine and gilt rubbed spine, edges scuffed, text block and illustrations bright, a very good copy. Item #225966
Bell’s classic work provides a comprehensive account of Britain’s native four-legged and aquatic mammals. Known for its detailed descriptions and scientific rigor, Bell’s History of British Quadrupeds became an essential reference for naturalists of his time, showcasing his careful observations and contributions to zoology. Illustrated with fine woodcuts, this volume captures the essence of British wildlife, reflecting the growing Victorian fascination with nature and species documentation. Bell was influential not only in the broader zoological movement, but in the development and solidification of Darwinian evolution. Bell was President of the Linnaean Society in 1858 when Charles Darwin and Alfred Wallace first presented their theories on natural selection. Bell eventually retired to The Wakes in Selborne, former home of naturalist Gilbert White.
Price: $700.00