LINNAEUS, Carl (1707-1778). Systema Naturae per Regna Tria Naturae, secundum Classes, Ordines, Genera, Species...Editio Decima, Reformata. Stockholm: Lars Salvius 1758-59.

The definitive tenth edition: “the starting point for zoological nomenclature” (Stafleu-Cowan). Linnaeus' system of binomial classification was first published in 1735 as a series of seven folio broadsheets and originally applied to plants only. As he collected new data, Linnaeus revised and updated the Systema naturae, eventually applying his system of classification to all of zoology, where it appears here for the first time. Dibner 27n; Stafleu & Cowan TL2 4794; Norman 1359.

Two volumes, octavo (198 x 122mm). (Occasional browning or spotting, light offsetting of turn-ins in vol. 2, small dampstain on title.) Contemporary marbled calf ruled in gilt, gilt spines, red sprinkled edges (a little wear and repair at spine). Provenance: early collation note in vol.1 – Peter and Margarethe Braune (bookplate; their sale, Christie’s 9 July 2019, lot 304).