Mr and Mrs Gould
This is the biography of brilliant artist, Elizabeth and her husband, the famous 'Bird Man', John Gould, who together embarked on one of the most significant natural history expeditions on record.
In 1838, John and Elizabeth Gould arrived in Australia after an arduous voyage from London, embarking on what would become one of the most remarkable chapters in their shared lives.
Their mission was to explore and document the unique birdlife of Australia and bring its beauty to the attention of the world.
34 year old Elizabeth Gould, pregnant with her seventh child, had continued to contribute tirelessly as the illustrator behind the striking images in her husband's scientific publications.
While John Gould had already earned acclaim in England as a leading ornithologist and publisher—sometimes referred to as the “Bird Man”—Elizabeth’s artistic contributions remained largely unacknowledged. With The Birds of Australia, there was hope that her extraordinary talent would finally be recognised.
A key figure in natural science, John Gould had previously worked on the birds of the Galapagos Islands, contributing to ideas that would later influence Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. In Australia, aided by Aboriginal guides, he encountered an astonishing range of native species that would enhance both his reputation and fortune.
This compelling Gould biography reveals John Gould’s scientific achievements and Elizabeth Gould’s pivotal, though often overlooked, role. It is a story of dedication, discovery, and the partnership behind one of the most significant ornithological works of the 19th century, a legacy Elizabeth, tragically, did not live to witness.
A perfect gift for ornithologists, history and art lovers.
Format: dust jacketed hard cover, 417 pages
ISBN: 9780733343254
Dimensions: 240x165x40mm
Weight: 750g
Delivery costs are calculated at checkout and include the total weight of items within an order.
Orders are posted Mon - Weds. Standard post to Australian addresses will arrive within 5 - 7 working days from dispatch date.
For international delivery, please allow an additional 14 days
We hope you are happy with your purchase(s). But if not, we will exchange or issue a refund provided that the goods are returned in saleable condition.
