This book was owned by Erasmus Darwin (1731-1802), grandfather of Charles Darwin.

A pocket guide for identifying plants and trees, it was created by nature printing. This method was introduced in the 17th century and was popular with naturalists who were not very artistically inclined. The leaf or plant was covered in ink and then pressed onto paper, recording both the shape and intricate veining of leaves.
An inscription in the front cover shows that Erasmus Darwin lent the book out to others, but requests it be returned “when done with”.

MS Add. 10141