The Complete Angler. or The Contemplative Man’s Recreation. London: Bell & Daldy, 1864. Pp, 301. With frontispiece portrait plate. A Fine copy bound in half tan leather, with gilt fish panels to spine. Gift inscription to front free end paper. An idea gift edition.

One of the most treasured works in the English language, Walton’s classic is a celebration of the art and spirit of fishing in prose and verse. First published in 1653, it has been described as “full of wisdom, kindly humour, and charity; it is one of the most delightful and care-dispelling books in the language.”