Narrative of an Ascent to the Summit of Mont Blanc, 21st September 1853 (Limited Facsimile Edition)

Privately printed in a very small run. This copy is 18 of 200.

An excellent, high-quality facsimile created by Tony Astill of Mountain Books in 2012. The original series of four-oil colour prints were published by George Baxter in 1855 and depict the ascent of Mont Blanc by MacGregor and Shuldham in 1853.

The four prints were created using Baxter’s patented method using a mixture of steel, copper, zinc, and wood engravings and coloured blocks to recreate the image with a full and vivid range of colours and details. His methods were celebrated for their ability to bring oil colours to life faithfully in printing, with some prints using over 20 coloured blocks.

This facsimile production reproduces Baxter’s plates with utmost faith. It also includes MacGregor’s narrative of his ascent, a letter from MacGregor to The Times newspaper, and an afterword by Tony Astill.

First facsimile edition. Southampton: Privately Printed by Tony Astill, Les Alpes Livres: 2012. Oblong 8vo. title, 6 leaves (verso only), 4 colour plates tipped in on verso pages, [iii]pp. Quarter cream cloth over blue hardcover boards. Titling to cover on white panel. Marbled endpapers. Very good/near fine. Cloth spine has some discolouration. Contents fine, free from imperfections. A beautiful copy of a rare production.

Full Title: The Ascent of Mont Blanc. A series of four views printed in oil colours by George Baxter. The original sketches and the description by J. MacGregor, Esq.

Provenance: From the library of Warwick H. Williams.

This book is currently on display in the rare book section of our Paddington store.

If you would like more information or to arrange a viewing, please contact: rarebooks@harryhartog.com.au