1845 – Book of Archery – Hansard | Bows & Arrows History – Robin Hood, Odyssey

The Book of Archery, by George Agar Hansard is a 19th century work dedicated to the study of archery across historical and contemporary contexts. This third edition, with title page dated 1841 and engraved title dated 1845, focuses on the development of archery from antiquity through modern practice. The volume includes discussions of legendary figures such as Robin Hood, Friar Tuck, and Maid Marian, alongside examinations of archery traditions among Native American groups and European schools of archery and crossbow use. Additional sections address classical references including Homer’s Odyssey and early treatises such as the Book of King Modus. The work is illustrated with an engraved title, frontispiece, and numerous plates.

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Book of Archery, Being the Complete History and Practice of the Art, Ancient and Modern
• Author(s): George Agar Hansard
• Publisher: London, Henry Bohn
• Edition: Third edition, 1845 (title page dated 1841).
• Binding: Leather binding with marbled boards
• Format: (8vo), single volume
• Size:  8.5 x 5.75 in (22 x 15 cm)
• Collation: [xxiv], 456 pp
• Illustrations: Engraved title, frontispiece, 13 engraved plates, and 24 other illustrations
• Contents Include:
  • History of Archery
  • Robin Hood and Associated Legends
  • Native American Archery Practices
  • French and Flemish Archery Schools
  • Book of King Modus
  • Classical References including Homer
  • Modern Bow Techniques

Condition:

Very Good. Leather binding with marbled boards remains secure; light rubbing to boards and edges; gilt spine details retained; pages generally clean; illustrations well preserved.

Why Collect This?

• Early sporting and archery reference work
• Includes references to iconic legends from Greek mythology and Robin Hood

Item Number: #50294