Details
EVELYN, John (1620-1706). Sylva, or, a Discourse on Forest-Trees ... to which is annexed Pomona ... also Kalendarium hortense. London: Jo. Martyn and Ja. Allestree, 1664. 2° (284 x 186mm). Title printed in red and black and with engraved arms of the Royal Society, with the initial licence leaf. (Same leaf and title a little stained, most foremargins lightly waterstained, without any of Keynes's additions). 19th-century half calf (hinges a little rubbed).
FIRST EDITION of Evelyn's magnum opus which, incidentally, was the first official production of the Royal Society, founded four years previously. 'Sylva, although it is at the present day superseded by more modern, perhaps more 'scientific' works, contains a wealth of interesting information and practical instruction in the growth and management of trees. Most kinds of tree found in the British Islands are systematically described, and the book shows throughout the fruits of the author's own experience' (Keynes). The last part, the Kalendarium Hortense, became Evelyn's most popular work and was often reprinted separately. Henrey 132; Keynes 40; Wing E-3516.
FIRST EDITION of Evelyn's magnum opus which, incidentally, was the first official production of the Royal Society, founded four years previously. 'Sylva, although it is at the present day superseded by more modern, perhaps more 'scientific' works, contains a wealth of interesting information and practical instruction in the growth and management of trees. Most kinds of tree found in the British Islands are systematically described, and the book shows throughout the fruits of the author's own experience' (Keynes). The last part, the Kalendarium Hortense, became Evelyn's most popular work and was often reprinted separately. Henrey 132; Keynes 40; Wing E-3516.