Systema Horti-culturae: Or, The Art of Gardening

London: William Freeman, 1700. Three-Quarter Leather. Collectible; Very Good. The fourth edition, 1700. "To which is added the gardener's monthly directions". Very uncommon British treatise on gardening, in 3 books, "Illustrated with Sculptures, Representing the Form of Gardens, According to the Newest Models". 16mo, 278 pgs. plus an alphabetical table and a catalogue of other books printed for William Freeman, "at the Bible in Fleet-Street". Rebound (mid 19th century) in handsome brown calf over marbled boards. Gilt title-label to spine, blindstamped compartments, raised bands. One hairline, 4" split along front hinge, otherwise nicely-preserved. Mild wear along tips and light scuffing--and some chipping--to front and back panels. New endsheets, with light foxing and discoloration, and original text clean and bright. Front hinge shaken but still a solid, VG copy of a horticultural rarity. Former owner signature ("William Thornton"--possibly the father of William Thornton, the architect of the U.S. Capitol?) to front free endpaper, else very clean, with no writing or markings of any kind.