Illustrations of natural history. Wherein are exhibited upwards of two hundred and forty figures of exotic insects, according to their different genera ... With a particular description of each insect: interspersed with remarks and reflections on the nature and properties of many of them. By D. Drury. To which is added a translation into French, vol. 1.
London, Printed for the author and sold by B. White, 1770-82
3 v. 151 pl. (150 col.) 29 cm.

Call no.: QL466.D78 1770 +.

Unlike the majority of the eminent natural historians of his time, the English entomologist Dru Drury (1725-1804) was not trained as a physician. After working 40 years as a silversmith, Drury retired in 1789 to devote his energies full time to his beloved insects, amassing one of the largest collections in Britain at over 11,000 specimens.

Drury's three volume Illustrations of natural history is particularly noted for its exquisite hand colored plates, which display a notable artistic, as well as scientific, aspect.