The History of Four-Footed Beasts and Serpents (1658)

The History of Four-Footed Beasts and Serpents (1658) by Edward Topsell (1572-1625).

In this 360-year-old natural history book, unicorns are presented alongside foxes, lions and hedgehogs by British clergyman Edward Topsell. He summarises ancient descriptions of the beast and writes about the many uses of its magical horn, which was said to ‘wonderfully help against poison’ when added to water.

Dragons also sit alongside real animals such as giraffes and rhinos. They are described as a type of serpent and the book includes several varieties from across the globe. Some slither on their bellies like snakes, while others have legs and wings.