Gum Boughs and Wattle Bloom Gathered On Australian Hills and Plains
By Donald MacDonald
Published by Cassell & Company Limited: London, Melbourne etc c1886 1st Edition (undated)
With Original Decorated Cloth Bindings
"Gum Boughs and Wattle Bloom by Donald MacDonald is a charming and evocative collection of Australian sketches, reflections and literary impressions celebrating the character of the Australian bush during the late nineteenth century. Written with warmth, humour and keen observation, the work captures life across the hills, plains and rural districts of colonial Australia, presenting vivid portraits of landscapes, settlers, stockmen and bush communities at a time when the national identity of Australia was still emerging. MacDonald's writing reflects both affection for the land and fascination with the distinctive culture developing beyond the colonial cities.
Donald MacDonald was one of Australia's notable journalists and literary figures of the era, recognised for his ability to combine descriptive prose with social commentary and gentle satire. In this work he explores themes of rural hardship, resilience, bush folklore and the beauty of native flora, particularly the iconic eucalyptus and golden wattle referenced in the title. The book belongs to an important tradition of early Australian literature that helped shape romantic perceptions of the bush and contributed to the growing sense of national consciousness in the decades leading toward Federation.
Published by Cassell & Company in this scarce first edition of circa 1886, the volume is especially attractive in its original decorated cloth bindings, which retain considerable period charm and Victorian aesthetic appeal. Early Australian literary works in original condition are increasingly sought after by collectors of Australiana, colonial literature and nineteenth-century publishing, particularly examples with strong presentation and international publisher imprints such as Cassell. A beautifully preserved example of early Australian cultural and literary history."
Light wear to the covers and spine. No inscriptions. Pages clean and well presented. An excellent copy in very good condition overall. Please study photos to further understand condition.
Size 19.5cm x 13.5cm x 2.5cm - 256 Pages
