La Chapelle, Georges de.

first edition, folio (300 x 220mm.), engraved title, 12 engraved plates showing costumes against a scenic background, probably by Nicolas Cochin after La Chapelle, woodcut headpieces and initials, modern calf, several repairs in the margins, frontispiece slightly shaved

cf. Blackmer 935 (second edition); Colas 1697; Atabey 648

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."

the first edition is rare. The artist, Georges de la Chapelle, native of Caen, lived for several years in the Levant, and his work is known to us only be these engravings. In the introductory text, present in this first edition, La Chapelle complains that the depictions of female costume in the more or less contemporary French edition of Chalcondylas are very badly drawn, hence the reason for this series.

The backgrounds of the plates if placed side by side form a panorama of Constantinople and its environs.