Edward Donovan, An Epitome of the Natural History of the Insects of China. London: Printed for the author, 1798

Edward Donovan, An Epitome of the Natural History of the Insects of China. London: Printed for the author, 1798. photo Sotheby's

First edition, 4to (287 x 226mm.), 50 hand-coloured engraved plates, 2-leaf prospectus bound in at front, contemporary mottled calf, [Nissen ZBI 1143], first few leaves dampstained at lower margin, occasional spotting or paper toning, rebacked, recornered and repaired. Est. 2,000—3,000 GBP. Lot Sold 2,125 GBP

Donovan, Insects of China, 1798

Sotheby's. Travel, Atlases, Maps & Natural History. 06 May 10. London www.sothebys.com