SNOUCK HURGRONJE. BILDER AUS MEKKA. LEIDEN, 1889

FIRST EDITION, folio (360 x 255mm.), half-title, title and 2 leaves of text, 20 photographs mounted on 18 leaves, modern half morocco over old marbled boards

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

Hurgronje published two important photographic monographs: Bilder-Atlas zu Mekka (see lot 302) and the present work. Encouraged by the success of the first work, Hurgronje went on to publish a further series of similar photographs: "Following the publication of Bilderatlas zu Mekka, Hurgronje received a letter from his doctor in Makkah, whom he had taught the art of photography. The letter contained new photographs of the hajj which were of such great interest that he decided in 1889 to publish his Bilder aus Mekka as an annexe to it... [With these two works] Hurgronje has given us a rare and unique archive of photographs of the Hijaz, and of Makkah in particular... The photographs provide an insight into the world of Mecca's inhabitants, pilgrims from all over the Islamic world, in addition to the sharif of Makkah, the Turkish governor, and various religious and secular figures" (Badr el-Hage, Saudi Arabia Caught in Time, pp.43-46).RARE. THIS WORK IS MORE SCARCE THAN ITS COMPANION VOLUME BILDER-ATLAS ZU MEKKA.