“THOSE WHO FIRST PERCEIVED IN MOUNTAIN CLIMBING SOMETHING ELSE THAN MERE LABOUR… WERE BOLD ENOUGH TO PROCLAIM ITS DELIGHTS”

DENT, C[linton]. T[homas]. Mountaineering. London: Longmans, Green, 1892. Large octavo, original three-quarter navy morocco gilt rebacked, top edge gilt, uncut. $1250.

Limited large paper first edition, number 108 of only 250 copies, of this generously illustrated guide to the challenges and rewards of mountain climbing.

Henry Somerset, eighth Duke of Beaufort, conceived of the "Badminton Library" (named after his principal country house, not the game) as a comprehensive series of instructional guidebooks, presenting history, rules and strategic hints for pastimes popular among Victorian England's aristocracy. Each chapter boasts expert commentary, accompanied by copious pictures and drawings. Published between 1885 and 1920, "the books provide a rich source of information on the growth and development of sport during the late 19th century in Britain, and are highly sought after by collectors" (Nauright & Parrish, Sports Around the World, 33). This volume includes chapters on famous mountaineers, principles of climbing and camping, wisdom regarding equipment and outfit and discussions of sketching and photography to capture views from conquered peaks. Principal author C.T. Dent made the first ascent of the Grande Aiguille du Dru 1878, as well as several pioneering ascents in the Caucasus. With 13 plates and numerous in-text illustrations. Front board gilt-stamped with Beaufort coat of arms. Neate 211. Bookseller's small ticket (largely obscured beneath inner paper hinge repair).

Binding with light expert restoration. Extremely good condition.