[Hill, John]

first edition, folio (410 x 250mm.), engraved frontispiece by Grignion after Wale, dedication leaf to the Earl of Bute, 60 engraved plates, 6K2 and a few other leaves with later manuscript notes, contemporary half calf over marbled boards, binding rubbed and worn at edges

Cleveland Herbal 442; Dunthorne 129; Henrey 776; Hunt 559; Nissen BBI 880; Stafleu TL2 2770

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

an attractive copy of this work, supposedly culled from the papers of Thomas Hale, about whom little is known.

"Eden contains descriptions and cultural details concerning the various products of the garden under the time of year in which they flower or fruit... Advice is offered on what to do in each month in the kitchen, flower and fruit gardens" (Henrey 2:98).

The work ends with the following addendum: "The Publick are to be informed, that since our publication of the Virtues ascribed to Deadly Nightshade, many trials have been made, but few have succeeded: it has no specifick Virtue against cancers, and its Use may be harmful".

A number of the illustrations are copied from the Hortus floridus (see lot 24); others are from Parkinson's Paradisus of 1629 (see lot 23).

For a coloured copy, see lot 21.