Item 23 is a beautiful folio color-plate book of flowers from Java: Fleurs, Fruits et Feuillages Choisis de l'Ile de Java. The artist was Berthe Hoola van Nooten, a lady whose difficult circumstances forced her to make the most of her artistic talents. It is difficult to track her precise movements, but we know she married, had a family, and became a widow while young. She had children, perhaps five, to support. She attempted to publish her drawings without success until under some unknown circumstances, Queen Sophie of the Netherlands became aware of her work and supported her efforts. Offered is an 1880 second edition of her book first published in 1863. €14,500 (US $19,303).
You may reach the Antiquariaat Forum at +31 (0)30 6011955 or info@forumrarebooks.com. Their website is www.forumrarebooks.com. Asher Rare Books may be reached at +31 (0)30 6011955 or info@asherbooks.com. Their website is www.asherbooks.com.
