John Gould’s Australian publications
John Gould was an immensely successful publisher. Explore some of his exquisite work.
John Gould was an immensely successful publisher. Over the course of his lifetime he produced 21 titles, 15 which were folio sets. In total, with his team of artists, lithographers and colourists, he produced 2999 unique plates.
Gould published two iconic works about Australian wildlife. For many years these lavish, large-format volumes provided the most comprehensive and detailed survey of Australia’s unique fauna for eager European audiences.
Birds of Australia was published in parts from 1840 to 1848. It contains over 600 plates, each one individually hand-coloured by Gould’s team of skilled colourists. Only 250 copies were printed.
Mammals of Australia was published in parts from 1845-1863. It contains 182 spectacular hand-coloured plates.
John Gould the publisher
