MAW, G.

A Monograph of the Genus Crocus.

      - London, Dulau and Co., 1886. 4to (310 x 250mm). pp. viii, 326, xx , (10), with 1 double page coloured map, 81 fine handcoloured lithographed plates after drawings by the author and numerous woodcut vignettes of views. Contemporary olive green morocco, covers with gilt border and fleurons at corners, richly gilt spine in 6 compartments, gilt edges, inner dentelles. A beautifully bound copy of the finest work ever published on the Genus Crocus. "George Maw (1839-1912) was the industrious author and illustrator of his great 'Monograph of the Genus Crocus' (1886). A many-sided and remarkable man, Maw was not a botanist by profession but a chemist and geologist, a manufacturer of encaustic tiles at Broseley, Staffs. His monograph, the result of ten years of inquiry, was the most complete work of its kind that has been published on any genus. The plates of this work are marvels of comprehensive detail and put to shame those of many more skilled draughtmen. From a botanical point of view this work is a landmark."(Blunt & Stearn p. 277 & 279). Maw collected in the Near East and North Africa. Plate 17 was never published. An interesting association copy. On free endpaper the following has been written: "To Charles Maw from his affectionate cousin. The author. Benthall, Kenley Surrey Oct. 1886" Nissen BBI, 1316; Stafleu & Cowan 5721. [Attributes: Hard Cover]