Stephanos della Rocca: Traite complet sur les Abeilles avec une nouvelle methode a les gouverner telle qu elle se pratique a SYRA,ile de l Archipel, precede d un précis historique de cette ile. Paris 1790 First edition,in large 8vo,complete in three volumes, contemporary full leather very slightly rubbed, spines richly gilt, text clean and bright,all 5 copper plates present including the one depicting a nice partial view of Syros, ex libris of Manoir de Roncheville and the famous Petritzi collection at front past down, overall in very good condition, a nice set of a rare work Stefanos Della Rocca (1738-1800) was a Catholic priest of Greek descent. He served as the Vicar General on the island of Syros in the Cyclades for many years. His unique background allowed him to bridge the gap between Greek beekeeping traditions and the emerging European scientific methods of the late 18th century. At a time when most Europeans were sulfuring (killing) their bees to harvest honey, Della Rocca described the Greek method of using movable wooden bars. This allowed beekeepers to lift individual combs out of the hive for inspection or harvest without harming the bees. This traditional Greek method which describe in details della Rocca, is the direct ancestor of the modern Langstroth hive. Beyond bees, the first volume provides a rare and unique account of Syros covering in details all aspects of the daily life in the Archipelago at the late 18th century, making it a valuable resource for the Aegean.