M.G.

Australia [die-cut shape book, c.1899]

London / Bavaria: Castell Brothers, c. 1899. 1st ed., pp.(viii), 4 colour plates, original coloured lithographed small book die-cut in the shape of 'Australia', 9 x 11.5cm, scattered light foxing, heavier to pages 6 and 7, light wear to spine. Author's initials (M.G.) printed on final page of rhyming verse. Very good condition.

Rare 'shape book', most likely designed to promote travel from England to Australia. Cover illustrated with two boys holding pick axe and shovel bound for the Western Australian gold-fields. Most Australian capital cities shown: Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane with Perth included on rear of book with other details of Colonies, Capitals, Rivers and Mountains. Illustrated pages depict kangaroos, emu, roseate cockatoo, black swans; bullock team; sheep mustering; an aboriginal family near a mia-mia, etc. Muir 6688. Item #102530

Price (AUD): $1,250.00   Other currencies