The archer's guide : containing full instructions for the use of that ancient and noble instrument the bow; directions for the choice of arrows; and all information essential to the attainment of theoretical proficiency in the graceful, manly, and fashionable pastime of archery : accompanied by a sketch of the history of the long-bow, whether as a weapon of war or an instrument of amusement / by an old toxophilite ; illustrated with plates of the costume and paraphernalia, position in shooting, etc. by R. Cruikshank, Esq., member of the Brompton Club of Archers.

Anon, An old toxophilite pseud.

Published by T. Hurst, St. Paul's Church-Yard., 1833

About this Item

First Edition 12mo 6.5 x 4 inches, xi + [1] + 178 + [2] pp. [3] leaves of plates, in this case joined to make a folding hand-coloured frontispiece. Bound in original green cloth with 'The Archers Guide' lettered in gilt on the upper board, extremities slightly worn very occasional foxing or finger mark in the text but a very good example complete. The bibliography states that the Illustrations were issued in two variants, with a single leaf frontis and two plates bound in the text, found in the paper covered boards bindings, or (as here) with the three plates joined to make a folding frontis. This variant seems to be found only in the cloth bound versions. The plates are identical in both versions. On the front pase-down endpaper is a bookplate sized engraved ticket of 'Calvert Bowyer and Fletcher to their Royal Highnesses the Dutchess of Kent and Princess Victoria 189 Fleet Street London' within an elaborate border of Bows and Arrows, Quivers Etc. Mr Calvert presumably sold this book in has shop. The book is scarce and there only seem about 35 copies recorded in libraries worldwide. A hunt on the web found only two copies of this first edition (both imperfect - lacking a plate or plates) and Bowman in New York has a good example ($500). Seller Inventory # 24729

Bibliographic Details

Title: The archer's guide : containing full ...

Publisher: T. Hurst, St. Paul's Church-Yard.

Publication Date: 1833