"Excellent memoir"

Glasier, Phillip. As the Falcon Her Bells.

€ 500.00

First edition, rare. "Excellent memoir" (Gallagher) of one of Britain's leading experts on hawking and falconry, Glasier (1915-2000), who spent much of his life involved with the conservation and breeding of raptors and bringing them to public attention through the foundation of the Falconry Centre, Newent, Gloucestershire.

In his autobiography he recalls his early life and his influential uncle, the falconer and photographer Charles Knight, who introduced him to the sport. The photographs show key moments in the author's life, including his first attempts at falconry with his uncle, introducing his own children to hawking later on, activities of the Hawking Club, and the training of an eagle in the Scottish winter, as well as impressive photographs showing birds in mid-flight or landing. Includes observations on his encounter with the American actor Robert Taylor (1911-69) on the set of the 1953 British-American historical film "Knights of the Round Table", where he was responsible for the flying of falcons.

Autograph inscription to "dear Uncle Charles" by Tara, dated "Christmas 1963". Lower boards slightly stained; occasional light foxing. A good copy of this intriguing account never seen at auction.