Rare 1871 1st Ed. The Sea & Its Wonders, Whaling, Climate Antique Victorian Book

Description: FOR PURCHASE ~ The Sea and Its Wonders Elizabeth and Mary Kirby. London: T. Nelson & Sons. 1871.Very scarce**, first edition of title by English sisters Elizabeth and Mary Kirby. Although intended for a younger audience, The Sea discusses contemporary issues, many of which remain relevant. Underscoring the text, which includes chapters on air currents, the gulf stream, temperature, climate, and myriad sea-dwelling creatures is an emphasis on the cruelty of whaling, harpoon fishing, and hunting dolphins, seals and other sea mammals. Many then-"radical" animal welfare groups were founded by British women during the latter half of the 19th century. Perhaps one of the best literary expressions of animal welfare movements is Anna Sewell's Black Beauty, published in 1877. Although the Kirby sisters do not seem to have been affiliated with any specific group, through their work they sought to educate young people about the importance of wildlife conservation, and this text suggests they supported the protection of animals, animal rights/welfare.Other contemporary references are made throughout the book--for example, an early chapter discusses Elisha Kane and his work in the Arctic while on the Grinnell expeditions of 1850 and 1853-55. And, as mentioned previously, there are chapters about whales and the whaling industry. Volume is decorated beautifully both inside and out. The majority of pages are illustrated, and there are a number of full-page illustrations (all b/w). Frontispiece "The Argonaut in the Open Sea" facing half-title. The latter is illustrated with a drawing of the Frigate-Bird. In dark-orange clothbound boards. Elaborate gilt tooling on front board--central vignette depicts a lone harpoon fisherman and a whale diving beneath the water. Gilt lettering offset against a backdrop of seaweed, seagrass coral, and seashells. Decorative borders stamped in black ink. Lettering on spine features a similar black and gilt pattern and is further decorated by a gilt nautilus shell. All edges gilt.**At the time of writing, there seems to be only 1 other copy of this edition for sale; although it is in similarly fine shape, I believe its asking price is confusingly high. Also, for those interested, this title is held by just 17 libraries according to Worldcat.Please see photos & Condition Details for more info. Item SpexSize: (in.) 8-8 1/10 x 6Pages: 304Condition Details: This item is in Good condition. Early pages are foxed, but marks taper off around page 20 at which point there is light, intermittent foxing. Text block is tight and without apparent issue. The binding is intact and in good/acceptable shape: at the bottom of front and back boards cloth is fraying; this has caused 1-2 in. areas where the hinges are weakened. Item must be opened/closed/handled with care so as to prevent further damages to these areas. Otherwise, there is light external wear--some bumping on spine at crown and wear to corners. Boards are sturdy. Page edges sharp and clean. Please see photos as they are a part of this description!------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Shipping: Domestic and International Buyers: For multiple purchases, flat-rate Priority shipping is available. Please contact me at time of purchase. Handing time: 1 business dayShipping combined when applicable. All items are shipped USPS media mail or priority domestically. Other services available upon request. Seller is not responsible for any damages or losses inflicted by shipping services. When packed and shipped, items are exactly as they appear in photos.International buyers are responsible for any VAT or duties/customs taxes in their respective countries.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Grading:Pristine or Mint: Like new.Very Fine: Few cosmetic issues.Fine: Minor cosmetic issues, such as small scuffs, scratches, or tears.Good: Some noticeable structural wear and/or cosmetic damage that does not interrupt the item's overall aesthetic integrity or intended use.Fair: Significant, noticeable structural wear and/or cosmetic damage that can interrupt the item's overall integrity and/or intended use. **Please keep in mind all items are Estate or previously owned unless otherwise noted. Please read the condition details & look over the provided photos carefully. If you have questions about an item, I am happy to answer.**~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~I started Valley of Ashes Antiques because I love collecting and researching books, print media, the occasional piece of jewelry, and other odds & ends. ~~~Please message with any questions!~~~

Price: 365 USD

Location: Saint Louis, Missouri

End Time: 2024-11-22T20:14:54.000Z

Shipping Cost: 5.38 USD