Harry Savory is considered by many to be the finest photographer to have taken his camera underground.
Here are almost 100 of Savory’s superb photographs, taken between 1910 and 1928—most of them previously unpublished—capturing in fine detail the extraordinary formations in the caves and the character of life above ground during the period.
The caving diaries vividly recall the hardships of early exploration, as cavers found their way through intricate systems with only candles for light. Savory’s pictures show many beautiful formations that have long since been destroyed or discolored.
Also included are plans of the caves and drawings Savory commissioned from his artist friend John Hassall. An informative introduction and commentary by Harry Savory’s son John provide the biographical background to the diaries, and Chris Howes’ preface sets Savory’s work in its historical and technical contexts.
