World's Most Expensive Printed Book Sold at London Auction for $10.3 Million

A rare and exquisite collection of bird pictures has made history at a London auction, selling for a staggering $10.3 million. John James Audubon's Birds of America, a masterpiece of natural history and art, was bought by an anonymous collector for the record-breaking sum. The book, featuring 435 hand-colored illustrations, is a testament to the artist's skill and dedication, making it a treasured possession for any book collector.

Key Takeaways:

• The sale of John James Audubon's Birds of America at a London auction has set a new record for the world's most expensive printed book, selling for $10.3 million.
• The book, which features 435 hand-colored illustrations, is a rare and unique blend of art, natural history, and craftsmanship.
• The sale has sparked concerns that the volume could be broken up and sold as individual works of art, but experts believe it is more valuable intact.
• Audubon's Birds holds a special place in the rare book market due to its original contribution to the study of natural history in the New World and its visually stunning content.
• Specialist Heather O'Donnell of Bauman Rare Books in New York considers the book to be one of the most visually stunning books in the history of print.

Statistics:

• The book sold for [pounds sterling]6.5 million ($10.3 million) at a Sotheby's auction.
• The book features 435 hand-colored illustrations, each one a masterpiece of art and natural history.
• The book is printed in the "double elephant folio" size of 97-by-65 centimeters.
• The sale has broken the previous record for the world's most expensive printed book.

Sources:

• The Associated Press
• Sotheby's
• Bauman Rare Books: Heather O'Donnell, specialist
• Matt Dunham, photographer for The Associated Press