[Bennett, Edward T.]

The Gardens and Menagerie of the Zoological Society Delineated

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by Charles Whittingham, for the Proprietors, Published by Thomas Tegg, and N. Hailes, [Vol.2 Published by John Sharpe] Chiswick 1831 First Edition [Being Descriptions and Figures in Illustration of the Natural History of the Living Animals in the Society's Collection. The Drawings by William Harvey; Engraved by Branston and Wright, Assisted by Other Artists]. Woodcut on the title-pages and throughout the text. Two volumes. 8vo. [230 x 142 x 60 mm]. xii, 308 pp; viii, 328 pp. Bound in the original green cloth, smooth spines with printed paper labels, plain endleaves and edges. (Front cover of vol.2 spotted). Contained within a latter slipcase. A fine copy. Vol.1 deals with Quadrupeds and vol.2 with Birds. The label on the spines gives a price of 24s for the two volumes. This is the first book to illustrate the animals in the menagerie of the Zoological Society, which had been founded in 1826. Bennett specifically congratulates Harvey for drawing from life (then a new idea) and the figures certainly look animated. The Blue and Yellow Macaw (vol.2, p.125) is signed by Edward Lear with his initials, and at least two other engravings have been attributed to him, constituting his first illustrations in book form. "Could Bewick's blocks have had this perfect printing, his work would have been advantaged greatly. As it is, the zoological books are filled with engravings which are for the most part equal to Bewick's best. The men who made them were trained in Bewick's school, and some of them by the master himself" - Warren, Charles Whittinghams Printers, p.113. With the armorial bookplate of Sir Joseph Radcliffe of Rudding Park (near Harrogate) in both volumes (also inserted upside-down at the back of vol.1). Sold Christie's 17/10/1972.

• GBP 750.00 > other currencies
• ordernr.: ebc2897

• bookseller: George Bayntun (GREAT BRITAIN)