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

  

The Sea and Its Wonders. 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. 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. 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. 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. Page edges sharp and clean.

Please see photos as they are a part of this description! Other services available upon request.

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. 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!

This item is in the category "Books & Magazines\Antiquarian & Collectible". The seller is "valleyofashesbooks" and is located in this country: US.

This item can be shipped to North, South, or Latin America, all countries in Europe, Japan.

• Binding: Hardcover
• Place of Publication: London
• Signed: No
• Publisher: T. Nelson & Sons
• Modified Item: No
• Subject: Outdoor & Nature
• Year Printed: 1871
• Original/Facsimile: Original
• Language: English
• Illustrator: Kirby
• Special Attributes: 1st Edition, Illustrated
• Author: Elizabeth Kirby
• Personalized: No
• Country/Region of Manufacture: United Kingdom
• Topic: Marine Life