Botanical plates from The Natural History of Carolina, Florida, and the Bahama Islands (pls nos. 7,85,89,96,97,99)

"The most famous colourplate book of American Plant and Animal Life" and "a fundamental and original work for the study of American species" (Hunt). Catesby made two visits to America in 1712-19 and 1722-26, traveling through Virginia, the Carolians, Georgia, Florida and the Bahamas and collected specimens which went to Sir Hans Sloane, as well as live plants, many of which were grown by London nurserymen. Upon his return to London he began preparing his book and, as he could not afford artists, he drew and engraved the plates himself, with the exception of three plates by Georg Ehret (one of which is plate 96, sold in this lot).