Greece and Constantinople

containing political reports from the capitals of Europe, in Greek, received (probably in Constantinople) in the months October to December 1740; the longest item 5pp. "Estimation of the present situation in Russia" (where the child Ivan VI had just succeeded to the throne), manuscript on paper, 28 leaves, folio (332 x 207mm.), early nineteenth-century half russia, old rebacking retaining original label

Hon. Frederic North [Lord North, fifth earl of Guilford (1766-1827)], bookplate and stamp, noted philhellene and collector of Greek manuscripts, sale 8 December 1830; Sir Thomas Phillipps, MS 7242, sale in these rooms 26 June 1967, lot 638, bought by Maggs; Constantinos Saccas, neatly lettered in red ink

the condition of this lot is as described in the catalogue description
"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."

FROM THE COLLECTIONS OF THE PHILHELLENE LORD GUILFORD AND SIR THOMAS PHILLIPPS. The scribe of this manuscript was probably Nicholas Karatzas, who was the logothete of the Greek Orthodox patriarchate in Constantinople, active 1730-1784. His position meant that in the patriarchal church he had a throne next to that of the patriarch, who would have commissioned him to compile this work, presumably for his use.