Description
The first edition, fourth issue of The Descent of Man and Selection In Relation To Sex by Charles Darwin, published in 1871. The first appearance of the word “evolution” in works by Darwin.
Octavo, [two volumes], viii, 423pp, [1], 16pp ads; viii, [2], 475pp, [1], 16pp ads. Publisher’s green blind stamped cloth, title in gilt on spine. Stated “Seventh Thousand” on title page of both volumes. Wood engraved illustrations throughout. Includes half-titles in both volumes, advertisement for “Popular Works” dated January 1871 in Volume I, and “Standard Works” dated January 1871 in Volume II. Volume I rebacked with green cloth, publisher’s original binding laid down. Blue coated endpapers, solid text blocks, hinges of Volume I reinforced with archival repair. Light foxing to endpapers, internally clean. (Freeman 938) (Garrison & Morton 170) (Norman 599) A handsome set.
The Descent of Man first appeared in February of 1871 and quickly sold out. A second run of 4500 copies was in print by March 1871. Numerous revised editions appeared, starting in 1873, with edits by Darwin and his son, George.
