Amazing Rare Things: The Art of Natural History in the Age of Discovery

Amazing illustrations

*****

Thanks a lot, this book is simply amazing! I really enjoy working on those antique engravings. Very good shipping, fast delivery!

I bought this book for various reasons - because I am interested in the botanical art of the 17th and 18th centuries, and because anything that David Attenborough produces is always of a consistently high standard. I certainly wasn't disappointed on either count. This is a book full of information and also some wonderful illustrations so that you can follow the development of such an intricate and meticulous art form. Some of the earlier pictures can bring a smile to your face with their depictions and the added bonus of insects and other creepy-crawlies - artistic licence?David's prose is, as ever, full of information that is a delight to read. The subject is obviously one close to his heart and he imbues the whole book with his enthusiasm and knowledge.I would thoroughly recommend this book to anyone - not just those with an interest in botanical art but also those who are interested in the development of an art form that is still in use today with the continual discovery of new plants from various parts of the world.

I'm a Master Gardener in Ontario. I promote sustainable gardening and present seminars as well as work as Horticultural Therapist. Sketching and keeping a garden journal provides a memory for families to pass along and perhaps one day will become a record for future horticulturists or those who may have an interest in the arts. This book provides an understanding of historical artists, it is wonderfully illustrated, easy to read. It's a book that I found hard to put down. An appreciation for the natural world evolves as you read and reflect through the pages of this beautiful book.