Bidspirit auction | John James Audubon's Birds of

John James Audubon's Birds of America - 7 Volume set with 500 Originally Hand-colored Lithographs - This is the first edition, seven volume set with 500 originally hand-colored lithographs of John James Audubon's Birds of America . The work was published by E. G. Dorsey and J. B. Chevalier for J. J. Audubon in New York and Philadelphia between 1840 and 1844. The volumes are bound in mid-19th century full tan crushed morocco, spines in six compartments with red morocco spine labels, gilt spine panel decorations in a repeating geometric flag pattern. All edges are gilt, covers double-ruled in gilt and blind with gilt turn-ins and marbled endpapers. Each volume has the half-titles and subscription lists. The work was completed under the direct supervision of J. J. Audubon. The plates were reduced with some modifications by John W. Audubon from the double elephant Havell engravings, adding some new species and depictions of birds with this first edition of the octavo plates. The lithography and hand-coloring were completed by J. T. Bowen. This edition is also the first appearance of the text to accompany the plates. Prints and thus this beautiful complete set in truly wonderful condition of Birds of America are amongst the most sought after and collectible of hand-colored American prints. The first edition was the only one to be completed using strictly hand-coloring. John James Audubon (1785-1851) is perhaps the most famous of early American naturalists. Birds of America is one of the best examples of hand-colored work in America and is highly collectible. This first edition set is one of the only realistic ways to own Audubon's collection that was approved by the artist himself. Paper Size: ~ 6 3/4” by 10 3/8”; Paper ~ 6 1/4” by 10” Paper Type or Special Features: 7 Volume set with 500 Originally Hand-colored Lithographs bon's collection that was approved by the artist himself. Provenance: from the collection of Virginia bibliophile C. Lynch Christian (1893-1986); likely from the stock of American sporting book dealer Ernest R. Gee (1878-1956), from whom Mr. Christian acquired much of his collection. (no book plates, but provenance provided from ABAA / ILAB seller we purchased the set from)