The Book of the Horse

First edition, first impression.  xvi, 17-880pp, with numerous black and white illustrations and decorations in text and colour and monochrome plates.  Decorated brown cloth-covered boards, with gilt titles on spine.  Top edge gilt.  Illustrated endpapers.  Heavy 4to.  Cloth a little tired, gently rubbed and rounded at corners and spine ends.  Gilding on upper text block edge a little tarnished, some spotting on remaining edges.  Internally neat, clean, bright and tight.

Edited by naturalist Brian Vesey-Fitzgerald, The Book of the Horse is a substantial, scholarly compendium on equine history, breading and culture, with specialist essays and articles on horse history and breeding, equestrian sports, stable management and pony care and the cultural impact of the horse.  Highly regarded for its extensive illustrations and technical drawings as well as historical photographs.  Many of the colour plates are by the acclaimed sporting artist, Lionel Edwards.