A History Of The Vegetable Kingdom; Embracing The Physiology Of Plants, With Their Uses To Man And The Lower Animals, And Their Application In The Arts, Manufactures And Domestic Economy
By William Rhind
Published by Blackie And Son: London 1866
"A History of the Vegetable Kingdom by William Rhind is a comprehensive 19th-century study of plants, written with the dual purpose of explaining their biological functions and highlighting their practical value to humanity. The book delves into plant physiology, examining growth, reproduction, and classification, while also situating botany within a broader framework of natural history. Rhind's approach balances scientific explanation with accessibility, making complex ideas understandable to a wide readership eager to explore the natural sciences during the Victorian era.
In addition to the science of plant life, the book emphasizes the immense usefulness of vegetation to both humans and animals. Rhind surveys how plants provide food, medicine, textiles, timber, and countless raw materials essential for arts, manufacturing, and domestic life. By linking botanical knowledge to everyday applications, he underscores the intimate relationship between nature and civilization. The work thus serves not only as a botanical reference but also as a celebration of the indispensable role of plants in supporting culture, industry, and survival."
General wear, fading and some damage to cover and spine as shown. Inside hinges have split. Rear cover becoming loose from hinge but still sttached. Hinges would benefit from some reinforcement. Text block binding is excellent and there are no loose pages. All 40 plates + frontis are present. Includes additional plate entitled "Australian Trees and Shrubs". No inscriptions or markings. Pages are typically clean, bright and crisp with some sporadic age spotting and plate bleed to opposite pages. An excellent copy albeit with a weathered cover. Please study photos to understand condition. Happy to provide more photos on request.
