A fascinating set of nine old handwritten notebooks from the 19th century retracing the hunting seasons of a Belgian aristocrat, from 1880 to 1897, between Belgium and Holland.
Far more than simple records, these registers form a testimony of life: rigorously compiled statistics, personal observations, presentation of hunting companions and carefully described dogs... all on no less than 450 handwritten and/or illustrated pages!
The writing is elegant, the paintings perfectly calligraphed, and the whole is enriched with several dozen original drawings and initial letters (dogs, trophies, animals, ornaments) which transform these pages into truly unique works of art.
Each notebook offers detailed summary tables (by month, by species, by year), sometimes covering 5 consecutive seasons, totaling several thousand pieces of game.
✦ Origin: Leuwen Castle (Belgium) ✦ Period: 1880–1897 ✦ Dimensions: Approximately 14x9cm ✦ Material: Handwritten laid paper, cardboard bindings or embossed black cloth ✦ Contents: Hunting records, observations, drawings and lists of dogs ✦ Condition: Good, consistent set, patinated bindings, some wear consistent with age but interiors are fresh - a few loose pages
A rare and fascinating lot, reflecting the passion and lifestyle of a Belgian hunter from the late 19th century.
