The Hunter's Arcadia is a book by Parker Gillmore, first published in 1886. The book is a guide to the natural world, and includes information on different types of game, hunting techniques, and fishing methods. It also includes essays on the ethics of hunting and the importance of conservation. It is considered a classic with beautiful illustrations that adds to its appeal. Parker Gillmore was born in Scotland in 1835 and he served as a British Army Captain during the Crimean War. He was also a seasoned hunter, with extensive experience in various locations like North America, India, China, and Africa. His passion for exploration translated into a prolific writing career. He penned numerous travel books, often published between 1869 and 1896. Interestingly, he sometimes used the pen name "Ubique" (meaning "everywhere" in Latin). European big-game hunters, in the late 19th century, viewed Africa as a rich hunting ground, seeking trophies like elephant tusks, rhinoceros horns, and lion heads. Facing dangerous animals in a seemingly untamed land provided a sense of excitement and accomplishment. Taking down large, wild animals like lions, elephants, and rhinos was seen as a test of courage, masculinity and marksmanship. These trophies symbolized the hunter's prowess and dominance over nature. Elephant tusks were also a valuable source of ivory, used for luxury items like piano keys and billiard balls. Crocodile skin, especially Nile crocodile skin, was prized for its durability and unique texture and was used in the production of high-end handbags, shoes, belts, and other luxury items. Rhinoceros horns were (and still are) mistakenly believed to have medicinal properties in certain cultures, creating a high demand and inflated prices. Museums and private collectors actively sought animal specimens for exhibitions and personal displays. Hunters often played a role in supplying these institutions. The vast, unexplored lands of Africa offered a sense of adventure and the opportunity to claim uncharted territories. Hunters, often wealthy individuals, were seen as pioneers venturing into the "wild" and showcasing dominance over the land and its wildlife. While hunting was a prevalent practice in the past, the ecological consequences and ethical concerns have led to significant changes. Strict hunting regulations were implemented and are now in place across Africa to ensure sustainable wildlife management, coupled with the establishment of national parks and protected areas to safeguard wildlife habitats. Today the focus lies on protecting Africa's magnificent fauna through wildlife conservation efforts like anti-poaching initiatives and habitat protection. The Hunter's Arcadia, Parker Gillmore, Chapman and Hall, London, 1886 xvi, 300 pages : frontispiece, plates. Bookshop sticker to front board (as per picture). Spine and board corners slightly rubbed, some foxing and humidity stains. Occasional/marginal hand-written notes on pages. Brown cloth with gilt title on spine and front. First edition. Book in good condition. PS: I'll ship the book carefully packaged in bubble wrap, via An Post, the Irish Postal Service ("Registered Post, Tracking, Insurance included to protect your valuable items"). I will provide the tracking number once dispatched. Thanks for visiting this page!