Novice collectors of fine art or new homeowners who have practically exhausted their budget on a mortgage can stylishly decorate their homes with framed natural history prints and intriguing old maps without spending a fortune. If perchance, such collectors are in London next week, the printed books, maps and manuscripts auction at Bonhams of Knightsbridge on Tuesday and Wednesday next, from 10.30 a.m. - 2 p.m., offers a fine selection of internationally significant pieces.
Of particular Irish interest is the section on books and manuscripts of Irish interest and atlases and maps of Ireland. The latter includes hand-coloured engraved maps of Connaucht, Munster, Ulster, Leinster and Dublin dating back to the 17th century.
Of more personal interest to some, the 24 views of the lakes of Killarney and Glengariff on chromolithographed plates carry an estimate of a mere £100-£120 for the lot. Collectors of books of literary significant should note a series of four manuscript poems by Herman Hesse, each signed by Hesse and interleaved with original watercolours captioned by Hesse. They are not cheap, however, with an estimate of £2,000-£3,000. What seems like a rather battered edition of Marie Edgeworth's stories for children (estimate £150-£200) may also draw some Irish interest.
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