HOUGH, ROMEYN BECK. 1857-1924.

The American Woods, exhibited by Actual Specimens and with copious Explanatory Text. Lowville, NY: Published and Sections Prepared by the Author, 1893-1911. Parts I-XII (only, of 14 volumes, the last of which was published posthumously). With 274 (of about 300) specimen cards with a total of 822 actual wood sections. Each mount displays three specimens from a species of tree in transverse, radial and tangential sections. Text in wrappers, cards loose as issued, enclosed in cloth chemises and slipcases. 8vo (230 x 152 mm). Lacking at least 26 cards, a very few wood specimens with splits or tiny holes, 1 specimen section split and detached from mount, cards with some rubbing to edges and a little dust-soiling, small library blind-stamps or pencil numbering to most cards; slipcases, chemises and wrappers to text volumes are defective with pieces lacking, dry, ex-library markings, slipcase lacking on Part XII. Unusual record of American wood types, arranged geographically. Each specimen is about 2x4½" in size and cut thinly enough to be partially translucent. Mixed edition, vol. 1 stated second edition, the others apparently first editions. Hough reflects that his book, "illustrated by actual specimens, and being in this way an exhibition of nature itself ... possesses a peculiar and great interest never found in a press-printed book.” Provenance: Withdrawal stamps from the Pratt University Library. See illustration.