A Tour in Scotland. MDCCLXIX

Description:

Engravings by Mazell and Murray. Rare first edition of Thomas Pennant’s (1726-1798) celebrated account of his Scottish journey, undertaken in 1769. One of the most important 18th-century travel narratives, which commences in Chester, offers a vivid and observant description of Scotland at a moment of profound social and cultural transition. Pennant, a distinguished naturalist and antiquarian, combined accurate observation with lively travel writing, recording landscapes, settlements, natural history, and the customs of Highland life. His sympathetic and detailed portrayal of the Highlands played a significant role in reshaping contemporary perceptions of Scotland in the post-Jacobite era, contributing to the emerging Romantic fascination with its scenery and traditions

A foundational work of British travel literature, A Tour in Scotland was widely influential, informing and inspiring later travellers and writers, including Johnson and Boswell on their own Scottish tour.

Mullens & Swann p. 466; Nissen ZBI 3110.

Condition

8vo, orig. calf boards, recased and rebacked with new (20th century) spine, raised bands, leather title piece (chipped to corner). Marginal browning to first and final leaf; light offsetting from the plates. 5cm closed tear to blank margin of leaf G8. Good. Armorial bookplate of the Chisholm Batten family of Thornfalcon. Also with a recent small bookplate with Egyptian hieroglyps within cartouche.