The Wonderland of the Eastern Congo by T. Alexander Barns (1922 Hardcover)

A scarce and highly collectible 1922 first edition of The Wonderland of the Eastern Congo by famed explorer and naturalist T. Alexander Barns, with an introduction by Sir H. H. Johnston. This fascinating account documents Barns’ travels through the Eastern Congo, including the Virunga volcanoes, pygmy tribes, giant gorillas and okapi. The Wonderland of the Eastern Congo is illustrated throughout with numerous photographic plates and originally issued with a folding map.

Bound in the original grey-brown cloth boards featuring the striking black and gilt gorilla vignette to the upper cover and gilt lettering to the spine. A desirable early travel and African exploration title from G. P. Putnam’s Sons, London and New York, first printed May 1922. An appealing shelf copy of an uncommon work that remains sought after by collectors of African exploration, Congo history, primatology and big game travel literature. The Wonderland of the Eastern Congo contains 288 pages plus plates and retains its original deckled page edges with gilt top edge.

Condition – Good

Original cloth boards show general wear and marking. The spine has been carefully repaired and there are minor losses to the cloth at the hinges. Gilt and black gorilla motif remains attractive. Pages are age-toned with foxing and discoloration throughout. Deckled text block edges also show discoloration, including the gilt top edge. Binding remains sound and serviceable.