[First Edition] Fisher Life; or George Gourlay [Used - Very good] [Hardcover]

Fisher Life; or, The Memorials of Cellardyke and the Fife Coast, George Gourlay â" 1st Edition Publication: Cupar, "Fife Herald" Office, 1879 Formatting: 8vo. Condition Report: Very Good. The volume presents in its original rust-brown publisher's cloth, which remains structurally sound and appealing despite some expected handling wear. The spine exhibits typical darkening and mild rubbing to the head and tail, while the corners are lightly bumped. Both the black and gilt tooling to the front board, most notably the central maritime vignette, remain remarkably bright and unoxidised. Internally, the binding holds firm with only the slightest tenderness at the front inner hinge; the dark green endpapers are intact and unmarked by significant previous ownership signatures. The text block, bearing slightly toned margins and very mild, occasional foxing, is clean, unmarked, and highly legible throughout, reflecting an overall tight and well-preserved copy of this vulnerable Victorian production. Catalogue Note: This is a rare first edition of George Gourlay's definitive local history of the East Fife fishing communities. Bound in its original decorated cloth featuring a striking gilt roundel of a cutter at sea, it stands as a scarce survival of regional Scottish publishing. Originally printed in Cupar and simultaneously sold by the author in Anstruther, true first editions of this work are notably difficult to secure on the open market; frequently only encountered as modern facsimiles or later reprints. A cornerstone of Scottish local history, Fisher Life; or, The Memorials of Cellardyke and the Fife Coast provides an intimate and unflinching portrait of the 19th-century maritime communities of East Fife. Written by Anstruther native and bookseller George Gourlay, the narrative immortalises the everyday heroism, perilous voyages, and profound tragedies of the local fishing fleets. From the devastating squalls of the North Sea to the quiet endurance of the families ashore, Gourlay's meticulously researched account stands as a poignant tribute to the resilience and enduring spirit of the Scottish fisherfolk.

Estimate:£97.84

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