Very rare last and most extensive edition of the first Western book on the cultivation of dwarf trees, extensively illustrated. All editions are very rare and this important and remarkably early account appears to have been wholly overlooked in the botanical, arbocultural and horticultural literature. "[Liegelsteiner] understands tree physiology like only a small minority of bonsai enthusiasts today" (Walter Pall). The technique he describes is exactly the traditional "Chinese" technique, and he explains in detail how, when and where to clip both roots and branches, advises transplanting trees regularly, notes correct and incorrect clipping techniques, gives instructions for correcting a lopsided tree, and for encouraging the bearing of tasty fruit. He also includes a chapter on training peach, apricot, plum and cherry trees on latticework, and an 8-page appendix (apparently new to this edition) on improving poor soil and enhancing wood growth. The 9-page "Vorrede" by an unidentified hortophile, also apparently new, gives valuable and detailed information about the introduction of the cultivation of dwarf trees to the European gardens.
With a manuscript shelf(?) number on title-page, otherwise in very good condition. Endpapers browned, and binding slightly rubbed, but still good. WorldCat (8 copies); cf. W. Pall, "Dwarf Trees of George Liegelsteiner", Bonsai Magazine III, pp. 38-39 (1725 ed.); not in Arnold Arboretum; BMC NH; Nissen; Pritzel; etc.