DAUBENTON, Louis Jean Marie. Instructions for Shepherds and - Lot 164

DAUBENTON, Louis Jean Marie. Instructions for Shepherds and Sheep Owners. First edition of this famous study aimed at improving wool production. Paperback copy, uncut. Paris, Printed by Ph.-D. Pierre, 1782. In-8, paperback, red paper glued to the spine, handwritten label on the spine, uncut. XVI and 414 pages, 22 engraved plates on heavy paper. Cover worn with small tears; spine creased. First edition, complete with its 22 plates engraved by Patas after Fossier. Daubenton (1716–1799), the first director of the National Museum of Natural History, took a particular interest in sheep breeding and helped introduce Spanish Merino sheep to France. This popular science essay was a great success at a time when France was seeking to produce high-quality wool to compete with English woolen goods. Uncut copy in good condition.