WILLUGHBY (Francis). Lot n° 39

Ornithologiæ libri tres. London, John Martyn, 1676. In-folio, granite calf, decorated spine, jagged edges (contemporary binding). One of the most important ornithological treatises of all times, marking the birth of the scientific study of birds in Europe. The copy comes from a second edition or a reprint of the original edition, published the same year. The title, printed in black and without an engraved coat of arms, does not mention the funding of the author's widow, and the imprimatur introductory leaflet is not included. Anker describes this edition under the title of the first edition as "another copy of the book. » The Treaty of Willughby was edited after his death by John Ray, a close friend of his who is considered the father of British natural history. It is divided into three parts dealing respectively with birds in general, land birds and water birds. The illustration consists of 77 remarkable intaglio engraved bird plates by W. Faithorne, F. H. van Hove and W. Faithorne. Shwerin, representing more than 300 species observed in their natural environment or kept in curio cabinets. The volume also contains 3 woods in the text and 2 tables. Willughby's Ornithologia is, according to Zimmer, "the cornerstone of modern systematic ornithology, being the first book that deals with the classification of species without geographical limitations". For the first time, ornithological taxonomy is established on the basis of the morphological characteristics of species, and not only on their behaviour, diet or song. For a long time to come, it will remain unparalleled. Epidermal binding with lacks. Freckles on a few text sheets, but the plates are generally fresh (except for plates nos. 37 and 38, which are slightly stitched). Nissen: IVB, n°991 - Zimmer: Ayer, 676-677 - Anker, n°532 - C. A. Wood, 629 - Cat. Bradley Martin, I, n°1962.