London, John van Voorst, 1839. 8vo (21.8 x 13.9 cm). xxiv, 142 pp.; numerous fine woodcuts. Contemporary polished calf. Spine rich gilt with five raised bands, floral vignettes and red morocco label with gilt title. Boards with triple-gilt borders and corner pices; gilt-lined edges and inner dentelles. Marbled endpapers. Top edge gilt.

An extravagantly bound copy of a useful and well-illustrated work by the British zoologist Thomas Bell (1792-1880). This is not an uncommon book but we have never seen it in such a wonderful luxurious binding. Some minimal shelf wear; first, second and rear blanks spotted, text pages clean. An excellent copy. Crane Library, AC189-191; Nissen ZBI, 293.