first edition Hardcover
1837 · London
by Rawstorne, Lawrence, Esq.
London: Rudolph Ackermann, 1837. 1st Edition. Hardcover. Very Good Plus. Rawlins, J. T.. Book. 8vo - over 7¾ - 9¾" tall. 208 pp. Includes errata page. With 15 hand-colored plates, drawings "taken on the spot". Gamonia was intended as a guide or handbook on the maintenance of a hunting preserve, or how best to set up farmland or woodland so as to optimize hunting or shooting potential. Written in a comparatively breezy or conversational style, its words of advice are still appreciated and read -- it remains a valuable reference, a classic on the subject. But without question the work is treasured above all else for its wonderful plates depicting sportsmen of the Regency Era -- plates much reproduced, framed and emulated. The orginal contemporary morocco has attractive border decoration on the boards, the gilding of which remains bright. Some wear to corners, rubbing and wear along edges, but boards are overall well-preserved. Also contemporary spine, with title written across length, but spine has been restored and signs of dryness, cracking and resulting unevenness are readily apparent. Binding is tight. Offsetting, as to be expected, from plates. Pages are generally clean. Some light soilage on endpapers and some plate margins. Pictorials if plates themselves are all bright and crisp. A very good or better copy overall.
(Inventory #: 006276)