[Lawrence, KN], Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles, 1984. Large 4to (27.3 x 21.0 cm). Two volumes (text, and plates). viii, 401 pp.; 47 full colour plates, 16 distribution maps. Uniform half calf over marbled boards. Spines with gilt bands and title. In original burgundy cloth slipcase (28.9 x 22.4 x 6.0 cm). Top edge of the text volume gilt.

The seldom-seen deluxe Patron's Edition, this being no. 133 of a limited edition of 300 copies; signed by the authors, the principal artist, and the editors. This work describes and illustrates the rich turtle fauna of Northern South America, and in particular Venezuela. It includes species from land, fresh water, and marine habitats, and therefore, it is useful for adjacent countries, and the whole Caribbean area, too. Ex-libris of former owner pasted to inner board of both volumes. This lavish edition differs from the "normal" edition in being printed on better paper, and in having the 25 plates by Giorgio Voltolina loose, in a portfolio, which makes comparison of the different species much easier. Moreover, the bindings, in a 17th-19th century tradition, are very well done and look impressive in any library.