Paxton, Joseph, Sir

Illustration: 717 handcolored engraved and lithographed plates of flowers after drawings by F. W. Smith, S. Holden, C. J. Fleming, and O. Jewitt (25 folding or double-page), 6 handcolored engraved and lithographed plates of garden plants, woodcut vignettes in text.

16 volumes, 8vo (9 1/4 x 6 1/4 in.; 235 x 160 mm). Binding: Contemporary half maroon morocco, spines lettered in gilt, green cloth covers, edges gilt. Provenance: Frederick Brooks (contemporary signature in some volumes) — Craig-Laurie of Redcastle (armorial bookplate in some volumes).



Occasional minor spotting in some volumes.  Bindings with some wear and rubbing, a few joints cracked.

De Belder sale 274; Great Flower Books, p. 161; Nissen 2351; An Oak Spring Flora 40; Plesch sale 591; Stafleu & Cowan TL2 7554

Occasional minor spotting in some volumes. Bindings with some wear and rubbing, a few joints cracked.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

First edition, complete in 16 volumes.

The early nineteenth century was a time of particular interest in flowering plants, and a variety of publications attempted to catalogue the ever-growing number of known species. Paxton sought to create a magazine of more important stature, with "Engravings of Plants, of the natural size, beautifully coloured, from original drawings" (Introduction). Several important artists contributed to this work, including Samuel Holden, whose celebrated depictions of orchids are included.

In addition to complete botanical descriptions and historical details, the letterpress accompanying each plate is illustrated with numerous woodcuts of plans of flower gardens, elevations of garden structures, utensils and instruments for florists, and figures for the proper management and development of the specimen.