Greville, Robert Kaye, Scottish Cryptogamic Flora, or Coloured Figures and Descriptions of

Greville, Robert Kaye, Scottish Cryptogamic Flora, or Coloured Figures and Descriptions of Cryptogamic Plants belonging chiefly to the Order Fungi; and Intended to Serve as a Continuation of English Botany, Printed for Maclachlan & Stewart, Edinburgh; and Baldwin, Cradock & Joy, London, 1823, 6Vol. in 3 books, late 19th century(?) half calf binding in green with gilt lettering to spine, with 360 hand-coloured plates, Robert Kaye Greville, a prominent figure in 19th-century botany, left an indelible mark on the scientific world with his groundbreaking work in cryptogamic flora. Born in Bishop Auckland, Durham, Greville's early years were shaped by his parents, Dorothy and Robert Greville, the latter being the rector of the parish church in Edlaston, Derbyshire. His childhood fascination with natural history evolved into a lifelong commitment, although his path initially led him to the study of medicine. However, realizing that his passion for botany outweighed the pursuit of a medical career, Greville made a bold decision to abandon four years of medical education in London and Edinburgh, focusing instead on his true calling. In 1816, Greville married Charlotte Eden, the niece of William Eden, 1st Baron Auckland. Greville's dedication to botany became more apparent in 1823 when he embarked on the ambitious project of illustrating and publishing the "Scottish Cryptogamic Flora." This monumental work was released in monthly parts and aimed to complement the catalog of flora found in Smith and Sowerby's "English Botany." Greville meticulously drew each specimen himself, accompanied by detailed text, creating a comprehensive depiction of the Scottish cryptogamic flora during the early 19th century. The following year, in 1824, Greville expanded his botanical contributions with the publication of "Flora Edinensis," a guide to the flora of Edinburgh. His dedication and scholarly contributions did not go unnoticed, as evidenced by the University of Glasgow awarding him a doctorate in 1826. Greville's influence extended beyond publications; he delivered numerous lectures in the natural sciences and amassed collections that were later acquired by the University of Edinburgh, preserving his specimens of plants and fungi in the Herbarium of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Notable among Greville's adventures was a boat trip to the Isle of May in late 1826 or early 1827, accompanied by students William Ainsworth and Charles Darwin. Despite his eminence as a cryptogamist, Greville's contagious laughter at seabirds led him to lie down on the greensward, creating a memorable moment for his companions. In 1828, Greville received a significant honor when Mount Greville in Queensland was named in his honor by fellow botanist Allan Cunningham. This mountain, now part of Moogerah Peaks National Park, stands as a testament to Greville's global impact on botany. Beyond his botanical pursuits, Greville showcased his diverse interests. In 1835, he published piano music for a sacred melody, and in 1839–40, he served as president of the Botanical Society of Edinburgh for the first time. Greville's engagement in political causes, such as abolitionism, capital punishment, Sunday observance, and the temperance movement, reflected his commitment to social issues. In 1840, Greville played a key role as one of the vice-presidents at the World's Anti-Slavery Convention in London, illustrating his dedication to humanitarian causes. His involvement in various learned societies, including the Biological Society and the Royal Society of Edinburgh, showcased his standing as a respected figure in the scientific community. Greville's impact extended internationally, as he held honorary memberships in the Royal Irish Academy and the Howard Society, along with corresponding memberships in natural history societies in Brussels, Paris, Leipzig, and Philadelphia. Notably, he served as the secretary of the Sabbath Alliance and contributed to the compilation of the Church of England's 1838 hymn book. Towards the end of his life, Greville faced financial challenges, prompting him to transition to professional artistry, creating landscape paintings that were exhibited. Despite financial hardships, he remained dedicated to his botanical work. In 1865–66, Greville served as President of the Botanical Society of Edinburgh for the second and final time. He continued to be actively involved in his research until his passing on June 4, 1866, at his home in Murrayfield, Edinburgh. Greville's legacy endures through his contributions to botany, his dedication to social causes, and his impact on the scientific community. His burial in Dean Cemetery in Edinburgh marks the final resting place of a man whose passion for nature and humanity left an everlasting imprint on the world of science and beyond.