Snakes:  Curiosities and Wonders of Serpent Life

by Catherine C. Hopley

illustrated by the author 

First edition.  London:  Griffith and Farran, 1882 

Hardback is overall in VERY GOOD condition.

• Ocher cloth covers have decorative borders, illustration and title in burnt umber and black inks. 
• Boards show some warping, bubbles, scuffing, smudges, edgewear.  Corners are bumped and frayed, with exposed board.  See photos. 
• Spine has gilt and black ornament and text and is darkened, with crushed, chipped ends.  See photos.
• Binding, a little cocked, is intact.  Some signs of separation and front cover.  See photos.  
• Pastedowns and feps have some light foxing, toning, owner's name at front, a tear to back fep.  See photos. 
• Frontispiece is present.
• Illustrations, color plates and ink line drawings, are bright and clear. 
• Interior is gently age-toned, with marginal toning. 
• Inside pages are free of writing and intentional marks.
• PS2024.0404

614 pages. 5.5 x 8 inches

A very good copy, in the original publisher's decorated covers, of this book by 19th century naturalist and artist Catherine Cooper Hopley (1817-1911).  In self-deprecating manner, Hopley called her book an "Ophidiana," or snake gossip, addressing it to all those who "claim an anxious interest in the Serpent race."

In fact, Hopley's book is a thorough examination of the snake, from anatomy and biology, to common myths, to individual species and habits, and even speculation on "the great sea serpents."  Hopley's careful study shed new light on creatures long thought to be vicious and deadly.  The result was an interesting and scientifically insightful book on the curiosities of serpent life that mixed Hopley's keen sense for observation and fact with her wonderful illustrations. 

Please see photos. More photos available upon request.

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