1. Title and Publisher:

• Title: Beautiful North Wales: 50 Carbogravures with Descriptive Notes
• Foreword by: Clement K. Shorter
• Publisher: The publisher’s name may vary depending on the edition, but the book is often associated with Macmillan & Co., as they were prominent publishers in the early 20th century.

2. Photographs (Carbon Gravures):

• The book features 50 carbon gravures, which are high-quality photographic reproductions. This printing technique produces rich, deep contrasts and detail, making it an ideal choice for showcasing the stunning landscapes of North Wales.
• These photographs likely depict famous landmarks such as the Snowdonia mountains, Anglesey, the Llyn Peninsula, and conservation areas around the area. The images capture the serene beauty of the natural environment, from rugged mountain peaks to tranquil coastal scenes, highlighting the region’s allure.

3. Descriptive Notes:

• Alongside each photograph, there are descriptive notes that offer context and background information on the locations depicted. These notes may provide historical details, cultural significance, or insights into the natural history of the landscapes, helping to deepen the reader’s understanding of the places shown.
• These descriptions would be aimed at tourists, enthusiasts of Welsh culture and history, or those simply interested in the natural beauty of the region.

4. Foreword by Clement K. Shorter:

• The foreword is written by Clement K. Shorter, a well-known British editor and writer in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Shorter was involved in the publication of various books and was the editor of The Sphere, a popular illustrated magazine of the time.
• His foreword likely sets the tone for the book, offering reflections on the beauty of North Wales, its significance, and why it remains an enduring subject for admiration and artistic representation. As an influential literary figure, Shorter’s inclusion in the project adds a layer of prestige and authority to the book.

5. Context and Appeal:

• “Beautiful North Wales” was part of a broader genre of books in the late 19th and early 20th centuries that aimed to showcase the scenic beauty of specific regions, particularly in the United Kingdom. Books like this one were often intended to attract tourists or to promote national pride in the country’s natural beauty.
• The high-quality carbon gravures and the descriptive nature of the text made this a luxurious and visually appealing book, ideal for collectors, photography enthusiasts, and people with an interest in Welsh culture and geography.

6. Themes and Features:

• Natural Beauty: The photographs focus on the breathtaking landscapes of North Wales, capturing its dramatic mountains, tranquil lakes, coastal views, and lush valleys.
• Cultural Significance: The descriptive notes might delve into the rich history and cultural heritage of North Wales, including its myths, legends, and historical landmarks, which often accompany such photographic books.
• Travel and Tourism: The book likely served as both an artistic and promotional tool, inviting readers to visit North Wales and experience its beauty firsthand.

7. Legacy:

• “Beautiful North Wales” is a significant work for those interested in the photographic history of the region. The combination of carbon gravures and descriptive writing makes it an important artifact for those interested in the depiction of Welsh landscapes in early 20th-century photography and literature.
• It also serves as a historical reference, offering a glimpse into the travel and cultural interests of the time, especially before mass tourism and modern photographic technology made similar books more commonplace.

Audience:

• This book would appeal to photography enthusiasts, travel writers, historians, and those with an interest in Welsh culture and landscapes.
• It is also a valuable resource for tourists or collectors who have an appreciation for the classic style of early photographic publishing and the portrayal of natural beauty.