Les Animaux Vivants du Monde, Tome 1 – Mammifères | Charles J. Cornish | Illustrated Antique Book | c. 1900
Rare Early 20th-Century Natural History Volume on Mammals
Discover the fascinating world of mammals through this richly illustrated antique volume: Les Animaux Vivants du Monde – Tome 1: Mammifères (Living Animals of the World – Volume 1: Mammals), written by Charles J. Cornish and published circa 1900. This large-format French edition presents an encyclopedic overview of the mammalian kingdom at the turn of the century, beautifully enriched with dozens of black-and-white photographic plates and engravings.
Originally published in English in London and translated for French-speaking audiences, this substantial work was part of a broader movement in natural history to bring the diversity of the animal world to public awareness in a scientific yet accessible manner.
Over 320 Pages of Vintage Scientific Knowledge
Spanning more than 320 pages, this comprehensive tome presents both familiar and exotic mammals from around the world — lions, elephants, bears, deer, monkeys, marsupials, and more — accompanied by detailed written descriptions and photographic plates. The images, a mix of photographs and early halftone illustrations, reflect the aesthetics of Edwardian-era zoology publishing.
Each animal is contextualized with insights into habitat, behavior, and classification, making it not only a collector’s treasure but also a time capsule of early 20th-century zoological knowledge.
A Beautiful Book for Natural History Collectors & Decor Lovers
Bound in sturdy cardstock covers with an embossed title, this French-language volume was designed to impress both as a scientific reference and as a decorative library piece. Ideal for vintage interiors, eclectic bookshelves, or as a gift for lovers of wildlife, zoology, or antique publishing, this volume represents a striking intersection of history, art, and science.
This is Tome I of the series, covering the mammals — and it stands on its own as a complete reference.
Key Information
Type: Antique illustrated zoological reference book
Title: Les Animaux Vivants du Monde – Tome I: Mammifères
Author: Charles J. Cornish
Language: French (Translated from English)
Publisher: Uncredited French Edition
Publication Date: Circa 1900
Origin: France
Pages: Approx. 320+
Material: Paper, cardstock cover
Illustrations: Dozens of black-and-white photographic plates and engravings
Binding: Hardcover, oversized
Dimensions:
