£175
12mo, pp. xii, 180 + 12 engraved plates and one folding table. Contemporary marbled calf, spine divided by gilt rolls, red morocco label, other compartments with central gilt tool. A touch of toning and spotting. Binding very slightly rubbed, joints just cracking at foot. Ink ownership inscription of Harriet McKinley dated 1812 to front flyleaf.
A handsome copy of the most famous book by English writer and social reformer Priscilla Wakefield (1751-1832), who began writing at the age of 43 to support her family. Formatted as letters between sisters inctructed in botany by their governess, it was among the first comprehensive botanical works written by women, and saw eleven editions in forty years, including three in the US and a French translation.
