BEWICK, Thomas (1753-1828). A History of British Birds. Newcastle: Edward Walker, 1804. 2 volumes, 8vo (230 x 143 mm). Engraved title, wood-engraved vignettes. (Very occasional spotting.) Contemporary green morocco, gilt ruled, turn-ins gilt, spine in 6 compartments with 5 raised bands gilt, red morocco lettering-pieces gilt, other compartments gilt-decorated, edges gilt, stamp-signed by White (small stain to one board, a few minor scuffs). FIRST EDITION, volume II (Water Birds), later edition of volume I (Land Birds). The first edition of Land Birds was started in 1791 and finished in September 1797, and the second edition appeared in 1798. In the 6 intervening years between the second edition of Land Birds and the first edition of Water Birds, Bewick's first printer, Solomon Hodgson passed away and he separated from his other partner in the project, Beilby. He completed the work that the three had started alone. Nissen IVB 95.