London: Printed for the Author, by J. Taylor, et al., 1790-1814; 1831-1849. 41 volumes bound in 26. First editions. 8vo. Illustrated with approximately 2,500 plates. 19th century full calf, cracking and flaking to spines, rubbing; hinges cracked resulting in partial or full detachment on select volumes; very light intermittent spotting throughout; very minor offsetting. Cleveland Collections 601; Nissen BBI 2225; Henrey 1366; Hunt 717

English Botany was conceived, illustrated, and published by James Sowerby with the assistance of Linnean Society founder Sir James Edward Smith. Smith wrote the technical descriptions of each plant specimen, but declined to be named as co-author--due to Sowerby's lower social status--until after the work became a success. "English Botany is of value even to the present day as a work of reference, and as an illustrated flora of our country it has never been surpassed" (Henrey, p. 143).