1904 First Edition bound by Bayntun - Green Mansions by W.H. Hudson. An early environmental novel.
Author: W.H. Hudson
Title: Green Mansions: A Romance of the Tropical Forest by W.H. Hudson.
Publisher: London, Duckworth & Co., 1904. First Edition.
Language: Text in English.
Size: 7.5" X 5".
Pages: 315 pages.
Binding: Attractive and fine binding, finely and beautifully bound by Bayntun-Riviere in full green morocco leather, the spine beautifully lettered and dated in gilt, gilt borders on boards, inner gilt borders and hand-marbled endpapers (hinges fine) under a protective removable mylar cover. All edges gilt. An exquisite Bayntun-Riviere binding!
Content: Near fine content (bright, tight, and clean - as shown).
Estimate: (USD 500 - USD 850).
The book: "A stunning 1904 first edition of ""Green Mansions: A Romance of the Tropical Forest"" by W.H. Hudson, published by Duckworth & Co., London. This early environmental novel is exquisitely bound by Bayntun-Riviere, renowned for their fine craftsmanship. The novel is set in the lush forests of South America and blends romance, adventure, and mysticism with a deep appreciation for nature and its preservation.
The story of ""Green Mansions"" follows Abel, a young man who flees from political turmoil in Venezuela to the depths of the Amazon rainforest. There, he discovers Rima, a mysterious and ethereal girl living in harmony with nature. The novel is a poignant exploration of the relationship between humans and the natural world, conveying a message about the importance of environmental conservation."
The author: W.H. Hudson (1841–1922) was an author, naturalist, and ornithologist. Born in Argentina, Hudson's deep love for the natural world is evident in his writings. "Green Mansions" is one of his best-known works, revered for its lyrical prose and its early environmentalist message, showcasing Hudson's ahead-of-his-time awareness of the need to protect the natural environment.
The binder: George Bayntun was born in 1873 in Bath, England. After an apprenticeship, he began his own bookbinding business in Bath in 1894, binding books by hand with great craftsmanship. Although many binders were using machines in their process, Bayntun refused to use modern techniques.