1887 Rare Book - Favourite Song Birds by H. G. Adams, Color Illustrated
Author: H. G. Adams.
Title: Favourite Song Birds.
Publisher: London, Groombridge and Sons, 1887. New Edition (stated).
Language: Text in English.
Size: 7 x 5 inches.
Pages: 192 pages + publisher’s catalogue.
Binding: Very good original publisher’s decorative cloth binding, with gilt and black-stamped ornamentation to the front cover and spine (hinges fine, overall slightly scuffed - as shown) under a protective removable mylar cover. All edges gilt. Overall a bright and attractive example.
Content: Very good content (bright, tight and clean, rare light foxing - as shown). A well-preserved and tightly bound copy.
Illustrations: Complete with 8 full-page colour illustrations of birds, finely executed and vibrant.
Estimate: (USD 250 – 300)
The book: A charming late Victorian natural history work devoted to some of the most beloved songbirds of Britain, including the nightingale, skylark, bullfinch, and robin. This 1887 edition is particularly appealing in its original decorative cloth, enhanced with elegant gilt titling and stylized bird motifs. The colored plates bring each species vividly to life, combining scientific observation with aesthetic pleasure. Designed for both education and enjoyment, the work reflects the Victorian fascination with nature, ornithology, and the poetic qualities of birdsong. A delightful and decorative volume, ideal for collectors of natural history and illustrated books.
The author: Henry Gardiner Adams (1811–1881) was a prolific English writer and editor specializing in natural history and popular science. His works, often aimed at a general audience, helped make the study of animals and plants accessible and engaging during the Victorian era.