A fine set of the work in which Darwin uses the word "evolution" for the first time.

In this work Darwin discussed the natural selection of mankind and his descent from a lower order. It is where the word "evolution" first made its appearance on page two of the first volume - a year before the sixth and final edition of his Origin.

"The Descent, understood by Darwin as a sequel to the Origin, was written with a maturity and depth of learning that marked Darwin's status as an elite gentleman of science" (ODNB).

First edition, first issue (with errata page to verso of title of vol. II and corresponding errors in vol. I). 8vo., viii, 423; ix, 47 5pp., ads to verso of title, 16 pages ads dated January 1871 at end of both volumes, illustrations in text, publisher's green cloth gilt, light wear to corners else a fine fresh set, modern cotton-lined green cloth slipcase edged in morocco.

Freeman 936.