SKETCHES; Representing The Native Tribes, Animals, And Scenery Of Southern Africa from drawings made by the late Mr. Samuel Daniell, engraved by William Daniell.
William Daniell & William Wood. 1820 London, 1st edn, 48 etchings each with a page of explanatory text. Oblong folio. Rebound in 3/4 leather with 5 hubs on the spine, marbled boards, original title label laid on. Light foxing, a few tears in pages professionally repaired. Item #005001
These sketches, by Samuel Daniell, depict a Southern Africa at a time that no photography existed and very few artists bothered to record what was Africa in a pristine, unspoiled state. According to the preface by William Daniell, his brother, Samuel was indefatigable in the pursuit of the various subjects he has drawn herein; and it was his constant care to see the animals alive, that he might make himself master of their actions and habits. Samuel accompanied Dr. Somerville on two expeditions into the interior to find his subjects. While it is obvious that some of the animals Samuel Daniell sketched were from skins and or descriptions it is equally obvious that those animals he saw alive with his own eyes, as well as the human subjects such as Hottentots, Kaffers, Koah and Booshwana are done with such delicate features that his interest for the subject matter comes through in the most strongest of manners. A delightful work. According to Mendelssohn the accompanying text for each of the plates was done by Mr. Barrow and Dr. Somerville. Samuel Daniel’s other work, AFRICAN SCENERY, is now so expensive that only the 1/100 of 1% can own it but here is a chance to own an original first edition of this much sought after artist, explorer and writer. We had this for sale on twice in 35 years of African book selling.
Price: $3,750.00