Paris, Victor Masson, 1867-1871. Four volumes in four. Large 4to (30.8 x 23.7 cm [text volumes]; 30.8 x 25.9 cm [atlas volumes]). Text I (1867-1868): half-title, title page, 474, [i] pp.; Text II (1869-1871) 632 pp.; Atlas I (1867-1868): title page; 96 lithographed plates, of which four double-sized and in chromolithography, and all with explanatory text leaves; Atlas II (1869-1871): title page; 104 tinted lithographed plates (numbered 97-200), all with explanatory text leaves. Several plates double-sized or larger. Uniform contemporary half-morocco over marbled boards. Spines with four raised bands, compartments with gilt title. Marbled endpapers. Speckled edges.

A very rare work of great ornithological importance. In fact, it is about the first thorough study of avian phylogeny, and morphology. Written by the French zoologist and anatomist (chiefly ornithologist and crustaceologist) Alphonse Milne-Edwards (1835-1900). Although most plates show fossil specimens, either bones or skulls, or whole specimens, several full colour plates show extant species, and species that became extinct in historic times, notably from Mauritius, Réunion, Rodriguez, Madagascar, and New Zealand. The oldest species recorded are Triassic, and Jurassic; many are from the Tertiaries. In other words, this work has a world-wide scope, rather than being restricted to France. Some rubbing to the board edges. Gilt text "Société Géologique" on all spine's foot. Small stamp of the same on titles, and on one plate margin. Minor, mostly marginal foxing to a few plates, otherwise an excellent complete copy of this very rare and important work. We found only three auction records, two of which being complete copies. Nissen IVB 284 (under Edwards); Nissen ZBI, 2831; Zimmer, p. 437.