The Art of Angling – Richard Brookes – 1740 | First Edition, 133 Woodcuts

First published in 1740, Richard Brookes’ Art of Angling was a popular sport and game book that went through many editions in the 18th-century. This first edition includes 133 woodcut illustrations that were done by Brookes himself, which, according to Westwood and Satchell, “contain the results of his own experiences which is that of a great number of years.”

This book describes aspects of fishing, most notably for those looking to improve their fishing skills. However, it also discusses types of water species other than just fish – sea devils, sea wolves, sea serpents, sea apes, whales, and even sea unicorns (narwhal) and the like; types of fishing bait, and of course, the best ways to catch fish!

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Art of Angling: Rock and Sea-Fishing: With the Natural History of River, Pond, and Sea-Fish. Illustrated with 133 Cutts.
• Author(s): Richard Brookes
• Illustrator(s): Richard Brookes
• Publisher: London: Printed by and for John Watts
• Edition: First Edition, 1740
• Format: (16mo), single volume
• Binding: Green morocco leather
• Size:  6.75in x 4.25in (17cm x 10.5cm)
• Collation: [16], 249
• Illustrations: 133 woodcut engravings
• Contents Include:
  • Descriptions of aquatic species
  • Fishing methods and bait types
  • Mentions of mythical sea life
• Reference(s): Westwood & Satchell 42

Condition:

Very Good. Bound in green morocco leather with gilt spine titles intact and light rubbing to corners. Pages show only mild aging. Binding remains tight, with all engravings and text complete.

Why Collect This?

• First edition with all 133 original woodcut engravings
• Includes uncommon references to sea monsters!
• Noted in key angling bibliographies

Item Number: #29054