[Lawrence, T. E.] - Egypt, Ministry of Finance, Survey Department

Large 8vo (11 x 7 1/2 in.; 280 x 190 mm). Half-title printed in red, dedication leaf with imprint on verso, frontispiece with complete set of stamps mounted, title printed in green with decorative border also encircling the frontispiece, 12 plates, 1 folding table. Original white boards decorated with printed arabesque motif in green; some soiling on both covers.

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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

First edition, number 64 of 200 copies, presented to Major General Sir Louis J. Bols.

After Hussein's revolt, Ottoman stamps could no longer be used in the Hejaz. Lawrence suggested that they issue new stamps as a means of publicising and bolstering the new nation. Lawrence did the initial design research in the Cairo museum collecting appropriate motifs. Lawrence is not mentioned in the present work, but the Surveyor General of Egypt, Ernest M. Dowson, refers in the brief introduction to "El Emir 'Awrunis of the Northern Armies of his Highness the King of the Hejaz at whose suggestion this work was undertaken."

Bols (1867-1930) served as Allenby's Third Army Chief of Staff in the Sinai and Palestine campaigns, and was the Chief Administrator of Palestine until June 1920.