THE COMPLETE ANGLER or the Contemplative Man's Recreation. Edited by John Major

The very handsome Navarre edition of this classic work. Illustrated with eight original etchings by Damman on tissue-guarded plates and with seventy-four wood engravings throughout reproduced from 19th century editions. 8vo, publisher's original dark green cloth with elaborate gilt lettering and central device on the upper cover, the spine gilt lettered, ruled and decorated, t.e.g. xv, 445 pp. A fine copy, just very lightly mellowed by time.

Edizione: a very handsome production, for their edition of this great classic the navarre society wisely chose the text and woodblocks from john major's early 19th century version, and augmented it further with the eight original etchings by damman; six of which are based on paintings by tourrier. beautifully wide margins, thick quality paper, and bright and attractive gilt decorated green cloth all add to the charm and appeal of this version.<br> walton's angler has been described as "full of wisdom, kindly humour, and charity; it is one of the most delightful and care-dispelling books in the language." "more than most authors he lives in his writings, which are the pure expression of a kind, humorous and pious soul in love with nature, while the expression itself is unique for apparent simplicity which is really elaborately studied art" (dnb).