British book-dealer opens Muizenberg’s very own curiosity shop

British antiquarian book-dealer and binder Andrew Berki has opened the doors of his new Cape Town shop, selling goods ranging from ancient maps and books to quirky antiques.

Rattlesnake Books, based in the vibrant retail area of York Road, Muizenberg, is named after the HMS Rattlesnake, a 16-gun sloop which featured in the Battle of Muizenberg in 1795.

The name sets the tone for a shop specialising in desirable and affordable historical artefacts. Huge antique maps and vintage movie posters adorn the walls, as well as art works by South African painters.

“Back in London, I made my reputation dealing in rare and interesting books. But here in Cape Town I can really indulge in sourcing some fabulous examples of Africana while also bringing to the market some exquisite European pieces,” says Berki.

Berki’s first love is for books and the shop will offer a wide selection of paper- and hardbacks, including modern firsts, on subjects ranging from Africana, natural history, literary fiction, politics, history and much more. In addition, there are highly-collectable books with fine leather bindings, for example Bell’s Engravings of the Arteries, dated 1801, which contains early hand-coloured anatomical plates.

Some other notable first editions include TE Lawrence’s Seven Pillars of Wisdom complete with dust wrapper and Stanley’s In Darkest Africa.

Some more recent treasures include a signed first edition of Pieter Hugo’s The Hyena and Other Men and Sue Williams’ iconic South African Resistance Art.

The books sit among some real curiosities, including antique telescopes, a brass spittoon and antique tiger’s teeth.

“Beautiful maps and prints add a new dimension of interest to home décor. These are not museum pieces, but objects of interest for any home owner,” says Berki.

Rattlesnake Books, 7 York Road, Muizenberg