As part of our Ann Everard project “A Historical Acquisition” here we acquired a reference book titled “The Great Flowers Books 1700 – 1900”. We are now offering this beautifully illustrated publication for auction.

THE GREAT FLOWER BOOKS 1700 – 1900

The Great Flower Books is primarily a catalogue of the finest publications of a period when art and science were “tightly interwoven”. A time when the pursuance of the science of botany prompted fine artistic expression and developments in print reproduction.

What makes this beautiful book relevant to Bawtry is the recognition within it of Anne Everard, a resident of Bawtry towards the end of the Regency period and the beginning of the Victorian age. Anne’s 1835 publication Flowers from Nature – with the Botanical Name, Class and Nature is one of the works considered worthy of listing in the Flower Books bibliography section, given that it meets the standard of quality to “give pleasure in all parts to a connoisseur”.

Bawtry Heritage Group, following engagement with Oxfam’s rare book section, has come into possession of a tangible artefact personally connected to Anne and her time in the town. The group is planning a prominent display in the Community Library during this year’s Festival Week not only celebrating the achievements of Anne in the world of botanical art, which was regarded highly including royal subscribers; but also her contribution within our town to the education of young ladies, encouraging them to flourish in “Female Accomplishments” in line with the social expectations of almost 200 years ago.

Watch out for the Anne Everard display in the new Heritage Centre in June. In the meantime, enjoy the rare chance to become familiar with this niche record of a different age.

OWN THIS BEAUTIFUL BOOK

In the build up to this year’s Festival Week the Bawtry Heritage Group is offering this beautiful publication for auction. To register your bid simply email bawtryheritagegroup@gmail.com stating your name and  bid. The highest bidder will be presented with the book during festival week.

The Auction Process

• All bids must be made via email to the Bawtry Heritage Group
• A reserve of £15.00 has been placed on the book
• The bidder making the highest bid will be contacted via email during festival week to organise payment and delivery
• Postage, if necessary, will be added to the total of the winning bid
• In the event of the highest bid being tied amongst participants, individual details will be entered into a draw coordinated by the Bawtry Heritage Group Committee to select the winning bid
• All proceeds from the auction will be utilised by the Bawtry Heritage Group Charity to help fulfil its aims to promote, present and preserve Bawtry Heritage.