25 - [Beekeeping] DUCHET (François-Xavier). *Culture des Abeilles* or *An Experimental and Rational Method for Making the Best Use of Bees by Constructing Hives Better Suited to Their Instincts*, with a New Treatise on the Origin of Beeswax. Veney, published by P. A. Chenebie, 1771. One volume, in-12 format, in contemporary sheepskin, smooth spine with decorative embellishments, gilt fillet framing the covers. (4) ff., 344 pp.

[Beekeeping] DUCHET (François-Xavier). *Culture des Abeilles* or *An Experimental and Rational Method for Making the Best Use of Bees by Constructing Hives Better Suited to Their Instincts*, with a New Treatise on the Origin of Beeswax. Veney, published by P. A. Chenebie, 1771. One volume, in-12 format, in contemporary sheepskin, smooth spine with decorative embellishments, gilt fillet framing the covers. (4) ff., 344 pp. A rare first edition illustrated with several woodcuts in the text, including two full-page plates. The author, a clergyman and chaplain at Remaufens in the canton of Fribourg, Switzerland, sets forth a rational method of beekeeping based on the observation of bee behavior. He focuses particularly on the construction and improvement of beehives, the management of swarms, and ways to increase honey production without destroying the colonies.