Some of My Bush Friends in Tasmania

London: Day & Son, 1860. First edition. Impressive volume with stunning full page chromolithographic botanical plates of native Tasmanian flowers, in an embossed presentation leather binding. Natural history verse accompanied by illustrations, by an outstanding woman artist. The design of the book owes much to Owen Jones, the designer of the famed "Grammar of Ornament" and Edward LaTrobe Bateman, who worked with Jones on various projects as illustrator and designer. Bateman collaborated with Meredith on both her books, providing lettering and edging details that are hallmarks of his work. Bateman was most likely a Yorkshireman, but his cousin Charles Latrobe was first Lieutenant-governor of Victoria, and he was commissioned to do the designs for Carlton Gardens in Melbourne in 1856.

Folio, 2 chromolithograph half title pages (1 duplicate), lithographed title & dedication page, ii preface, 107 pp text decorated at edges, 11 full page lithographic plates, beautifully designed & printed. Full embossed presentation leather binding, rubbed at edges. Carefully re-sewn to replace the old resin binding which failed, allowing some plate edges to ruffle o/w vgc. Meredith is a well-known botanical artist whose migration to Australia allowed her to draw their fascinating flora & insects with a beautifully composed Victorian sensibility. The plates are widely prized for their quality, which were lithographed in twelve colors. Ferguson, 12508.