An original Victorian natural history volume titled “An Illustrated Natural History of British Moths” by Edward Newman, F.L.S., F.Z.S., published in London by Robert Hardwicke of Piccadilly in 1874.

This is a substantial 19th century entomological reference work focusing on British moth species. The book contains detailed printed descriptions alongside numerous engraved illustrations depicting adult moths and related stages. The illustrations are integrated within the text and are presented in black and white, typical of the period.

The original publisher’s decorative cloth binding is present. The cover features an ornate Victorian design with gilt butterfly motifs and a central title panel reading “The Natural History of British Moths & Butterflies” by Edward Newman. The spine and boards show clear signs of age and use, including edge wear, rubbing, and some fraying, particularly at the corners and spine ends. The binding remains intact.

Internally, the title page confirms the full title, author, publisher, and date of publication. The paper shows expected age toning, spotting, and foxing throughout, consistent with a genuine mid-to-late 19th century book. The text is legible, and the engraved illustrations are clear and well defined.

Size 7 inches x 10 inches 176 pages gilt edged with embossed covers

The book opens flat and appears complete, with no obvious missing pages visible from inspection. There is wear commensurate with age, but no modern repairs or rebinding are evident. This is an authentic period example, not a facsimile or later reprint.

Edward Newman was a prominent Victorian naturalist and entomologist, and this work is regarded as an important reference in British lepidopteran studies. The volume is suitable for collectors of antique natural history books, Victorian scientific literature, entomology, or decorative 19th century

Edward Newman

Illustrated Natural History of British Moths

British moths book

Victorian entomology

19th century natural history

Antique insect book

Victorian science book

British entomology

Lepidoptera reference

Antique moth illustrations

Victorian illustrated book

Robert Hardwicke Piccadilly

1874 natural history

Antique zoology book

Butterflies and moths

Victorian cloth binding

Gilt butterfly cover

Antique reference book

British insects

Victorian era book