Amazing Rare Things: The Art of Natural History in the Age of Discovery

Amazing illustrations

The illustrations are beautiful

Gift for a friend

Beautiful book... expertly written and full of amazing images...

I must admit being a little misled by the fact the name David Attenbourough appears above this book's title. I am so fascinated by his Telvision works and the accompanying books, that I buy almost anything with his name on it.While the book itself is well illustated and well written, I was dissapointed that Sir David's only contribution was the Introduction.This is a good book for someone with a deep interest in Natural History illustations, but may be a little much for someone with a more fundamental interest in Natural History documentaries.

I was looking for a book about natural history artists, and found this. It is wonderful - the color plates are gorgeous. The section on Maria Sibylla Merian alone was worth the price of the book (which I got used, sort of a bargain, actually). I have not yet read a word - I probably will eventually, but I can't take my eyes off of the flowers and insects. Lovely.

I was really impressed with the color illustrations of the artists. I was surprised to see that Leonardo Davinci's art was the worst of any artist in the book. I had heard that David Attenborough had not made enough comments in the book according to one Amazon reviewer, but I found that that was not the case. He certainly is the main author of this book.

The book was a gift for a friend. I was so happy with the condition it was in! It was nearly perfect! The book also arrived very quickly. Thank you, thank you!!

This book is beautifully designed, made and feels of quality, especially the pictures which are well printed and glossy. Lots of interesting and unusual information. Good for anyone into natural history, historical curiosity, gardening, botany etc. Good to dip in and out of.

Bought as a gift

Enriching knowledge of natural world.

As ever David Attenborough comes up with a fascinating book, well-researched and illustrated.

Interesting