Unity In Variety. By Christopher Dresser. Second Issue. James S. Virtue. London, 1860.

Christopher Dresser was a British designer in the nineteenth century whose works were apparitions for much of the Western design that followed. That is, he was fundamental to the Aesthetic Movement and Art Nouveau, producing novel designs with all manner of materials. He also famously drew inspiration from nature, especially plants. Prior to his international renown as a designer, Dresser studied botany and published several books on the subject. Of those early works, Unity In Variety, as Deduced from the Vegetable Kingdom, stands out as a major achievement. It is a remarkable study on patterns among species of plants. It contains numerous illustrations to visualize these patterns. Not only does it demonstrate intriguing interpretations in botany, but the work also shows where Dresser developed some of his tastes in design. For all these reasons, Unity In Variety is an important text. It serves as evidence of the rich cross-pollination of the arts and sciences in the mid-nineteenth century.

This first edition, second issue has been rebound in modern half leather over paper boards, near-fine with only slight rubbing to leather spine. Text block very good, only small chips and closed tears and occasional paper repairs. Second issue indicated by the 1860 date on the title page and the higher quality paper.

A scarce 1860 copy of Christopher Dresser’s Unity In Variety.