First published in 1814, Werner’s Nomenclature of Colours is a classic taxonomic guide to the colours of the natural world.

In the pre-photographic age, almost all visual details had to be captured using the written word, and scientific observers could not afford any ambiguity in their descriptions. These included Charles Darwin, for whom Werner’s Nomenclature was an indispensable tool during his seminal voyage on the HMS Beagle.

This facsimile edition is a charming artefact from the age of explorers, which continues to be treasured by artists and scientists alike.