Stuart, James and Nicholas Revett.

first edition, 5 volumes (including Supplement), folio (535 x 363mm.), engraved title vignettes, 2 portraits (of Stuart and Revett), 368 plates and plans, some folding, numerous etched or engraved illustrations in the text, folding map of Greece in volume 3 hand-coloured in outline, list of subscribers in volumes 1 and 5, errata leaves in volumes 1, 3 and 4, modern half calf over marbled boards, spines gilt, red morocco lettering pieces, some spotting and offsetting

J. Giles, signature on each title

Blackmer 1617; BAL RIBA 3183; Cicognara 2713; Fowler 340; Harris 857

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 rare complete set of the first accurate survey of the classical buildings of athens, through the influence of which the Greek style was established in English architecture. Sir John Summerson (1904-1992), one of the leading architectural historians of the twentieth century, has described it as "one of the three most important travel books of the century" (the other two being Wood's Ruins of Palmyra and Adam's Palace of Diocletian at Spalatro). Stuart and Revett's visit to Athens was made in 1751 at the instigation of the Society of Dilettanti. Stuart was responsible for the measured drawings, Revett for the topographical views. At the end of the index in volume 4 there is a note that plate 29 in volume 2 (chapter 1) was not issued.