WITH 21 LOVELY ENGRAVED PLATES OF WINDSOR AND ETON

JESSE, Edward. Favorite Haunts and Rural Studies; Including Visits to Spots of interest in the Vicinity of Windsor and Eton. London: John Murray, 1847. Octavo, contemporary three-quarter brown calf, elaborately gilt-decorated spine, raised bands, black morocco spine label. $300.

First edition of this 19th-century guide to amusing diversions in Berkshire, with frontispiece and 20 engraved plates depicting views around Windsor and Eton, handsomely bound.

As the deputy surveyor of the royal parks and palaces, Edward Jesse spent much of his life around the areas covered in this work. He was also a friend of William IV, Sir John Croker, and Rev. John Mitford, the editor of The Gentleman's Magazine. This book represents a particular kind of travel narrative that was highly popular in the 19th century, in which English gentleman traveled around the areas in which they lived and attempted to point out the various amusements, scenic views, and sites of architectural interest. Here, Jesse covers some of Berkshire, relevant parts of Buckinghamshire, and a few spots in the country. Jesse also pays attention to natural history, an area in which he was quite accomplished.

A handsome copy.