Lot 65•
GERARD (JOHN) The Herball or General Historie of Plantes... very much enlarged and amended by Thomas Johnson, Adam Islip, Joice Norton and Richard Whitakers, 1636
Ending from 19 November 2025, 12:00 GMT
Online, London, Knightsbridge£800 - £1,200
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GERARD (JOHN)
The Herball or General Historie of Plantes... very much enlarged and amended by Thomas Johnson, engraved pictorial title incorporating a portrait of the author, upwards of 2800 woodcut illustrations, additional 4-page manuscript index of English names bound at end, without the opening and final blanks, the title laid down (shaved at margins), pagination numerals to opening section amended in ink by an early hand, small corner of one leaf of index torn away but generally a very clean copy, modern calf gilt with morocco spine label [ESTC S122175; Henrey 156; Hunt I, 230; Nissen BBI 698], folio (332 x 222mm.), Adam Islip, Joice Norton and Richard Whitakers, 1636
Footnotes
Thomas Johnson, an apothecary and amateur botanist, enlarged and edited Gerard's great Sixteenth century herbal, including some 800 new plant species, more illustrations, and amending errors. Whilst Johnson's "alterations added more scholarly descriptions at a time when Britain was on the cusp of a scientific enlightenment, the Herball's enduring appeal lies in John Gerard's engaging text, full of personal accounts, and his descriptions rooted in folklore" (Royal Collection Trust, website).
Provenance: Will Zouch, early ownership inscription on dedication leaf.