JOHNSON, Theophilus (1836-1919). Autograph manuscript notebook, 'Some Insects of Distinction' [Dartford, ?end of the 19th century], containing descriptive entries for 'Luminous Insects', 'Musical Insects' and 'Predaceous Insects' accompanied by 22 tipped-in watercolour and monochrome drawings, alongside 10 further watercolours of butterflies and flowers (9 of these initialled 'T.J.', apparently intended for a different work), 82 written pages, 8vo (227 x 145mm), (apparently unfinished). Card covers (detached).

JOHNSON, Theophilus (1836-1919). Autograph manuscript notebook, 'Some Insects of Distinction' [Dartford, ?end of the 19th century], containing descriptive entries for 'Luminous Insects', 'Musical Insects' and 'Predaceous Insects' accompanied by 22 tipped-in watercolour and monochrome drawings, alongside 10 further watercolours of butterflies and flowers (9 of these initialled 'T.J.', apparently intended for a different work), 82 written pages, 8vo (227 x 145mm), (apparently unfinished). Card covers (detached).

Entomology was a particular speciality of Johnson (all but 5 of the 29 works held by the NHM relate to entomology), and his superior subject knowledge and attention to detail are reflected in what appears to be a preparatory manuscript for one of his natural history publications. Very fine watercolours are crafted by the author to accompany entries for insects ranging from glow-worms to mole crickets and dragonflies. ABPC and RBH record only one other Johnson manuscript to come to auction in the last 20 years.