Dury, Andrew, publisher.

First edition, 8vo (190 x 127mm.), French and Italian titles, text in both languages, 27 hand-coloured engraved maps by Peter Andrews (comprising one general map and 26 route maps), contemporary English red morocco gilt, spine gilt in compartments, gilt edges, some light soiling and offsetting

Alan Thomas, book label, sale in these rooms, 21 June 1993, lot 185; Lord Wardington, bookplate, sale in these rooms, 18 October 2005, lot 153

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where appropriate
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

A fine copy of this guide to the roads of Italy, presumably for use on the Grand Tour (see previous note). A scarce English publication, issued by the innovative Andrew Dury, a Frenchman resident and working in London.

The preface (in French only) makes it clear that the work is meant to protect travellers, particularly English Lords, against rapacious inn-keepers who cry not "let us eat the Jesuit", but "let us eat Mylord!". As well as maps, the book provides details of stages, and their cost, together with precise details of hotels and so forth.

Some copies are recorded with an additional engraved title in English. This is not present in this copy, nor was it in the Feltrinelli copy (Christie's South Kensington, 3 June 1988, lot 1816).