MOULE, Thomas (1784-1851)

HERALDRY OF FISH NOTICES OF THE PRINCIPAL FAMILIES BEARING FISH IN THEIR ARMS

John van Voorst, printed by Samuel Bentley, London, 1842. First Edition. Royal Octavo, 25 x 16 cm, (2) (XV), 250, (2) pp. with 205 particularly fine wood-cuts in the text. Engravings probably by Mary and Elizabeth Clint.

Contemporary beautiful full marone morocco binding with rich multiple gilt ruled ornamental design on board edges and inner dentelles. LARGE PAPER-COPY.

Five gilt ruled raised bands on spine. The second compartment reads Moule’s Heraldry of Fish. Other compartments with elaborately floral gilt decorations. London 1842 in gilt on spine heel. Colourful pink peacock marbled pastdowns on front and end papers. All edges gilt. Half title and title page with mild foxing. Text and illustrations clean and firm. Binding in excellent condition. In Moule's work the families bearing fish in their arms are arranged according to a natural history form of classification. The book consists of XIV sections on fishes and other aquatic animals. Of particular interest are: V. The salmon, trout, smelt, and grayling, with their enemy the otter; XII. The dog-fish, sea lions, and other monsters; XIII. The seal, mermaid and triton. Provenance: Armorial bookplate of Christopher Turnor (1809-1886) and another ex-libris with coat-of-arms with arm holding a trident emerging from the sea and motto "Pro viribus summis contendo" pasted on front pastedowns.

Price: € 500,00