The birds of Berkshire and Buckinghamshire: a contribution to the natural history of the two counties.
Eton: Ingleton and Drake; London: Simpkin, Marshall, 1868. First edition of the first ornithological book illustrated with photographs, and published when the author was a mere sixteen years old; small 8vo, pp. xiv, [2], 232; four orig. hand-colored albumen prints of birds (stuffed specimens); orig. green cloth, gilt vignette on upper cover, gilt lettering and vignette on spine; expertly rebacked with old spine imperceptibly laid down; overall appearance is fine and bright. Truthful Lens 96: "It was impossible at this time to photograph live birds due to the absence of the telephoto lens and extremely light-sensitive plates that would permit short exposures. Muybridge [Animal Locomotion, 1887] was the first to photograph birds in flight. The author, perhaps also the photographer, is given the by-line "An Eton Boy"." Gernsheim 436. Item #21906
Price: $750.00
