The Art of Deer-Stalking, William Scrope, First Edition, London 1838, Finely Bound by Tout & Sons
A first edition of The Art of Deer-Stalking by William Scrope, published in London by John Murray in 1838, widely regarded as one of the foundational works of British sporting literature.
The text centers on deer stalking in the Scottish Highlands, particularly the Forest of Atholl, blending firsthand sporting narrative with natural observation and cultural insight. Scrope moves between detailed accounts of the hunt and broader reflections on landscape, wildlife behavior, and Highland life, capturing a moment when field sports were becoming deeply tied to identity and tradition in Britain.
The work is especially notable for its illustrations after designs by Edwin Landseer and Charles Landseer. Edwin Landseer’s imagery helped define the romantic vision of Highland sport in the 19th century, and his association elevates the desirability of the book among collectors.
This copy is presented in a later fine English leather binding by Tout & Sons, with gilt decoration and stag motifs appropriate to the subject. Marbled endpapers and gilt edges further reflect the treatment of this title as a collectible object rather than a purely functional volume. An armorial bookplate for Major Ion Harrison, an early 20th century collector of sporting and illustrated works, adds a layer of provenance.
England, 1838.
Condition
Good antique condition. Pages with expected toning and light spotting consistent with age. Binding firm and attractive, with minor wear to edges and corners. Plates present.
The Art of Deer-Stalking, William Scrope, First Edition, London 1838, Finely Bound by Tout & Sons
A first edition of The Art of Deer-Stalking by William Scrope, published in London by John Murray in 1838, widely regarded as one of the foundational works of British sporting literature.
The text centers on deer stalking in the Scottish Highlands, particularly the Forest of Atholl, blending firsthand sporting narrative with natural observation and cultural insight. Scrope moves between detailed accounts of the hunt and broader reflections on landscape, wildlife behavior, and Highland life, capturing a moment when field sports were becoming deeply tied to identity and tradition in Britain.
The work is especially notable for its illustrations after designs by Edwin Landseer and Charles Landseer. Edwin Landseer’s imagery helped define the romantic vision of Highland sport in the 19th century, and his association elevates the desirability of the book among collectors.
This copy is presented in a later fine English leather binding by Tout & Sons, with gilt decoration and stag motifs appropriate to the subject. Marbled endpapers and gilt edges further reflect the treatment of this title as a collectible object rather than a purely functional volume. An armorial bookplate for Major Ion Harrison, an early 20th century collector of sporting and illustrated works, adds a layer of provenance.
England, 1838.
Condition
Good antique condition. Pages with expected toning and light spotting consistent with age. Binding firm and attractive, with minor wear to edges and corners. Plates present.