On Planting and Rural Ornament

The two volume third edition of farmer and land agent William Marshall's guide to planting, first published in 1795. The work was intended as a practical guide for those in possession of large estates on the establishment and maintenance of timber plantations, both for their financial value and as decorative elements in the landscaping of the surroundings of the owner's house. The work covers the practical issues of planting, propagating and transplanting, and discusses the choice of trees for different commercial purposes, and the planning and maintenance of hedgerows, as well as ornamental buildings.With a single leaf of advertisements to the rear of volume II, and the inscription 'Gibbon' to front pastedowns.With half titles.A wonderful insight into landscape gardening in the late eighteenth century. In full calf bindings, with significant rubbing to back strip heads and tails and board perimeters. Tail of front board of volume I and head of front board of volume II starting, with boards holding firm. Volume II front and rear hinges strained with boards holding firm. Inscription to front pastedowns. Internally, firmly bound. Pages lightly age toned but generally clean, with only the odd spot. Very Good.…