Natural History Lore and Legend: Being Some Few Examples of Quaint and Bygone Beliefs Gathered in From Divers Authorities, Ancient and Medieval, of Varying Degrees of Reliability

London: Bernard Quaritch, 1895. First Edition. Hardcover. Very Good+. First Edition. Hardcover. "First published in 1895, Natural History Lore and Legend is an early look at cryptozoology from England. Though the book begins by dissecting zoological knowledge in the Middle Ages and describing medieval naturalists who searched for the truth, it quickly moves into a more in-depth study of some of the most well-known legendary creatures: pygmies, mermaids, phoenixes, the basilisk, and more. Mythological creatures are compared to modern animals and the relationships between them are explored and evaluated." Frederick Edward Hulme (March 1841-10 April 1909) was known as a teacher and an amateur botanist. He was the Professor of Freehand and Geometrical Drawing at King's College London from 1886.
From the library of Dr. Oliver Sacks, the renowned neurologist, author, and educator. He was, in his life, celebrated for his contributions to the understanding of the human brain and his ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to a broader audience. In doing so, he highlighted the profound impact of neurological disorders on human identity and experience. His library is a reflection of this remarkable polymath's questing mind. Bumped corners, light toning, and wear to head and tail, else tight, bright, and unmarred. 8vo. viii, 350pp, 2 of publisher's adverts, illus (b/w). Green cloth boards with gilt titles and decoration to spine and front board, top edge gilt, fore edge uncut. Laid in brochure from bookshop.