FIRST EDITION, 2 volumes, 8vo (185 x 120mm.), half-titles, 2 folding maps, 8 engraved plates, illustrations in text, contemporary half green morocco gilt, marbled boards, without advertisements, glue residue to front endpapers, minor staining and spotting, small holes to C7-8, a few repairs mostly to folding maps, slightly rubbed

Condition is described in the main body of the catalogue, where appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

"On the basis of artistic format, literary style, and scientific merit, it is clearly one of the finest scientific travel books ever written" (DSB). Wallace travelled in the East Indies from 1854 to 1862, and during his travels, Wallace independently formulated the theory of evolution by natural selection. His letter to Darwin in 1858, outlining his ideas, forced Darwin into publishing On the Origins of Species. Wallace dedicates the present work to Darwin 'as a token of personal esteem and friendship [and] also to express my deep admiration for his genius and his works.