2 volumes in one, large 4to (254 x 322 mm). 56 plates, views and maps (several with hand-coloring); numerous in-text illustrations throughout. (Spotting or dust-soiling to several plates.) Modern morocco gilt, uncut.

COMPLETE WITH THE VERY RARE HAND-COLORED ENGRAVED GEOLOGICAL MAP. MURCHISON. The Silurian Region and Adjacent Counties of England & Wales Geologically Illustrated. London: J. Gardner, [1839]. Engraved map dissected into 24 sections and mounted in 3 larger sections on old linen backing (browned, some folds reinforced verso).

"PROBABLY THE GREATEST WORK EVER TO BE PUBLISHED EMBODYING THE RESULTS OF A SINGLE PIECE OF RESEARCH BY ONE MAN. This work detailed and established practically the whole succession of the stratigraphical formations and their fossil contents (and associated igneous rocks) of what we now know as the Ordovician and Silurian systems, in their type areas" (Challinor 141). Nissen ZBI 2944.