HUMBOLDT, Alexander von (1769?1859). Examen Critique de l?histoire de la geographie du nouveau continent? Paris: Libraire de Gide, 1836?39. 5 volumes, 8vo. Half?titles, 4 large folding maps in Vol. V, 3 of which have hand?colored embellishments. Half early red morocco over marbled boards, raised bands, crushed red morocco lettering?pieces gilt, gilt centerpieces in compartments, top edges gilt, marbled endpapers (corners gently rubbed, spines a bit darkened, intermittent spotting mainly marginal). Provenance: William Eames (signature on front flyleaves); early catalogue slip affixed to ffep verso in Vol. I from C. P. Everitt: List 4, June 1935). SECOND EDITION (first in octavo) of this historical scholarship classic on American geographical study that first appeared in Humboldt?s Voyage aux regions equinoxiales du Noveau Continent. From 1799 to 1804, Humboldt and his scientist companion Aime Bonpland explored parts of Central America and the upper portions of South America, gathering extensive scientific information in the fields of geology, botany, zoology, and oceanography which has been touted as ?the scientific discovery of America?. RARE. Howes H?787; Sabin 33722.