Published by E. Walker (Newcastle upon Tyne, England)
1 volume, 1807 (5th edition)
Dimensions: 8.6 x 5.5 x 1.75 inches
The Library’s copy of Bewick’s
History of Quadrupeds is of particular interest because it includes a fine example of a fore-edge painting. The painting can be seen only when the gilt edges of the book are carefully fanned; when the book is closed, the image seems to disappear.
The practice of fore-edge painting was originally developed in medieval libraries as a way of identifying books. It later developed into an art form, most often employing images of coats of arms or landscapes. This watercolor hunting scene was probably painted on the book’s fore-edge when it was rebound in 1820 by the firm Taylor and Hessey. Unfortunately, the artist has never been identified.