Wildflowers of the Fairest Cape Author: W.P.U. Jackson
Wildflowers of the Fairest Cape
A Visual Celebration of the Extraordinary and Diverse Flora of the Cape Peninsula
Bibliographic Specifications
- Title: Wildflowers of the Fairest Cape
- Author: W.P.U. Jackson
- Publisher: Howard Timmins, Cape Town
- Publication Date: 1977
- ISBN-10: 0869781944
- ISBN-13: 9780869781944
- Edition Details: First Edition, Standard Hardcover Release.
- Binding: Original publisher's premium full-cloth boards with sharp gilt title stamping along the spine.
- Physical Format: Quarto (4to), 132 pages. Lavishly illustrated with full-colour photographic plates capturing rare fynbos, orchids, and proteas in their native habitats.
- Language: English
Official Condition Report
- The Book: Very Good Plus (VG+)
- Exterior / Boards: The hardcover binding is in beautiful shape, standing square and upright. Gilt spine text is bright and untarnished.
- Interior: Internal pages and high-grade glossy color plates are crisp, clean, and bright white throughout.
- Provenance & Ex-Libris Context: Features the distinctive ex-libris bookplate on the page opposite the title page, displaying a stylized owl emblem and the name Richard Hall. This volume derives from the personal archives of the renowned journalist, historian, and prolific author on African affairs, Richard Seymour "Dick" Hall (1925–1997). The iconic owl symbol is an intentional visual play on his name and the bushveld's Spotted Eagle-Owl ("Dic-Hool"), marking his dedicated custodial legacy over this rare botanical volume. [1, 2]
- The Dust Jacket: Very Good Plus (VG+)
- Condition Detail: The original illustrated jacket is remarkably bright and clean, showing only microscopic storage wear. Now professionally protected with a brand-new, clear archival plastic sleeve to guard against dust and future handling wear.
Synopsis & Historical Value
Published in 1977 by the renowned Howard Timmins, Wildflowers of the Fairest Cape is an authoritative and visually captivating guide to the legendary fynbos ecosystems of the Western Cape. Dr. W.P.U. Jackson provides an accessible yet scientifically sound guide to identifying the region's unique flora, including rare Proteas, Ericas, and Disa orchids.
Accompanied by vibrant full-color field photography and helpful identification breakdowns, this work serves as an essential companion for botanists and hikers alike. This first edition is a valuable collector's piece for enthusiasts of fine Cape botanical history and out-of-print natural history guides.
Author Profile: W.P.U. Jackson
Professor William Peter Uprichard Jackson (1918–1992) was a highly distinguished South African medical scientist, endocrinologist, and passionate amateur botanist. A true polymath, he served as a senior professor at the University of Cape Town and published foundational medical research, while spending his personal time mapping the unique flora of the Cape Peninsula. His books are highly regarded for successfully bridging the gap between professional botany and accessible public field guides.
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