6 parts in 1 volume. [3]-6, [2], 163, [1]; [10], 160; [3]-5, [3], 160; 58, [2]; [6], 147, [1]; 37, [1] pp. Four engraved title-pages, plus 249 engraved plates by M. Merian the Younger, depicting quadrupeds (80), birds and bats (62), fish and whales (47); crustaceans, jellyfish (20), insects, worms, sea-stars (28), snakes (12). (folio) 15x8¾, blind-ruled and blind-stamped vellum, spine with raised bands.
Early edition of all 6 parts of Johnston's very important natural history, with hundreds of plates depicting over a thousand animals. This copy collates complete according to Nissen. Other copies (including the Cole Library copy) cite 48 plates in de piscibus et cetis, but here the plates are numbered consecutively through 47. Nissen 2131-2135.
Condition:
Three small gouges with wear from top edge, corners curled, turn-ins starting to spring, creased endleaves; first title with repaired marginal tears, minor inkstain, wear at edges, first several leaves worn at lower corners, small marginal wormhole to last approximately 25 leaves; one plate with marginal tear, one plate with misprint from crease; very good to near fine, nice impressions.