SCHEUCHZER (Johann Jacob). Natur-Geschichte des Schweizerla über die sndes, samt seinen Reisenchweitzerische Gebüge. Zurich, D. Gessner, 1746. 4 volumes in one large in-8, full cream vellum binding, smooth spine, title page on spine, speckled edges (period binding). Second edition, illustrated with 3 maps, including 2 large folding maps, and 30 etched hors-texte plates, including 7 folding plates. Pagination: 486 pp. + 1 uncounted leaf, 4 uncounted leaves + 382 pp. + 1 uncounted leaf, 62 pp. + 1 uncounted leaf and 44 pp. In this work, the author takes stock of our knowledge of the natural history of Switzerland and the Alps. It is supplemented in this edition by Johann Georg Sulzer's investigation into the origin of mountains. A copy in superb condition, apart from a stain with a small loss of 1 cm2 on the flyleaf and a 6 cm tear without loss on the plate on page 191 of volume II. Johann Jacob Scheuchzer (Zurich 1672 - 1733) was a Swiss physician and naturalist. He was a doctor at the Zurich orphanage and the city's librarian. He travelled extensively in Switzerland, producing a number of important works. Scheuchzer was the first to write that "the Alps are like a museum of the wonders of nature". He denounced popular beliefs that attributed evil powers to the Alps and described the rocks and natural wonders of his country. A good copy of this rare and sought-after work. Perret, 3945 - Waeber I, 32 - Coolidge 28 (1st edition)