The Compleat Angler, or The Contemplative Man's Recreation, Being a Discourse of Rivers, Fishponds, Fish, and Fishing not unworthy the Perusal of most Anglers
London: George C. Harrap & Co Ltd, (1931). Limited Edition, Signed by Rackham. Illustrated throughout by Arthur Rackham. Vellum over boards. Quarto. [1-4], 5-223, [224] pages.
This is a lovely edition of Walton's famous fishing book, with Arthur Rackham's superb illustrations and decorations, including 12 full page color plates, 22 head and tailpieces, a title page vignette, and the decorated endpapers.
The text (with modernized spelling) is from the fifth edition of 1676, the last to be revised by Walton himself. One of 775 copies, this one marked "Special" in place of a number and signed by Rackham.
Ref. HORNE 299.
Near fine. Bound in vellum over boards with gilt-stamped titles and rules to spine and upper board, top edge gilt, decorated endpapers. A few shallow bumps to spine ends, light foxing to half title and along inner margins of endpapers. Some leaves unopened. Clean and sound overall.
Item #1997
Price: $750