Lesson Hummingbird Vesper, Femelle LHB26

Oiseau-Mouche Vesper, Femelle
6 by 9 1/2 inches
LHB26 $75

This delightful work consisting of 218 exquisite copper engravings with hand coloring, is the first comprehensive work on hummingbirds or Trochlidae. It precedes Gould’s work by 20 years. These beautifully executed plates describe the hummingbirds, their habitats and their nests. The inspiration for the work was Lesson’s voyage on la Coquille, during which he studied these fascinating creatures in the wild. The drawings are by Prêtre and Bévalet, the best French natural history artists in of the day.

The condition of these prints is good, on strong paper that is lightly toned. The hand coloring is superb and a copy of the title page will be included.