Paris, Augustin Challamel, 1922-1923. Three parts in three. 4to (27.1 x 21.3 cm). 1,799 [xvi, 624; vii, 694; viii, 450] pp.; 540 text illustrations [504; 11; 25], 64 plates [27; 29; 8], one tinted double-sized geographical map of Madagascar, Mayotte, and the Comores (in volume I), one very large, multi-folded full colour geological map (in volume III). Uniform contemporary red buckram. Spines with gilt title. Marbled endpapers. Speckled edges.

The most important monograph on the geology and mineralogy of Madagascar, well illustrated and including a large bibliography and geographical name index of almost 100 pp. The work is divided as follows: Tome I (1922), Géologie, minéralogie descriptive; Tome II (1922), Minéralogie appliquée, lithologie; Tome III (1923), Lithologie appendice, index géographique. The first volume is well-illustrated with photos and drawings of minerals; the second volume shows more minerals, as well as the often primitive mining activities by the local people; the rare third volume includes views of landscapes with geologically interesting features. The initials, J. S. in gilt on each spine foot, no other markings. Some age-toning (due to the quality of the paper). Some light staining to the cloth boards of volume 1. The plates, printed on heavier paper, very good. Single parts are rare, especially part III; a complete set - such as this one - is quite rare. This set - without library marks and in very good, clean condition - is truly a rarity. Sinkankas 3741.