Antiquarian Auctions

Auction #131 begins on 21 May 2026

Bornman (C.H.)

WELWITSCHIA

Paradox eines Verdorrten Paradieses / Paradox of a Parched Paradise

Published: C. Struik Publishers, Cape Town, 1978

Edition: First Edition

Reserve: $40

Approximately:

Estimate: $50/60

Bidding opens: 21 May 16:30 GMT

Bidding closes: 28 May 16:30 GMT

Ships from: South Africa

Lot 82 preview

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Editor's note: 'Even today, more than a century after its discovery, Welwitschia mirabilis remains the crown jewel of the Plant Kingdom and the paradox of the Namib Desert. When it was brought to Britain before the turn of the century, it was described as the most interesting albeit the ugliest plant ever seen there, the most wonderful discovery from a botanical point of view but also the world's most bizarre, grotesque and monstrous plant. To Darwin, it was 'the platypus of the Plant Kingdom'. In this book the world's leading authority on the subject discusses the marvels of Africa's – and probably the world's – most incredible plant.'

First Edition: Parallel German and English text, 71 pages including a glossary and index, 37 colour and 3 black & white illustrations, green cloth,  a very good copy in slightly worn dust jacket.

  • Overall Condition: Very good
  • Size: 8vo (255 x 172 mm)


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