Boschini, Marco.

first edition, first issue, folio (320 x 215mm.), engraved title, letterpress dedication leaf, allegorical plate showing a miniature map of Crete surmounted by the Lion of St. Mark and 61 engraved maps, plans and views (9 folding and including a detailed general map of Crete), contemporary calf, large plan of Crete laid down, small tear, occasional marginal soiling, rebacked and corners repaired

Blackmer 171; Clutton, Imago Mundi 34, Some Seventeenth Century Images of Crete, pp.48-65; Nordenskiöld Collection 1, 31; Weber II, 802; Atabey 136

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 Venetian painter, engraver and writer Marco Boschini began work on this survey of Crete in 1645. In that year Crete was invaded by the Turks, and when Il regno tutti di Candia was published, the town of Candia (Heraklion) was in the fourth year of what was to become a twenty-two year siege. "At that time, the attention not only of Venice but the whole of Christian Europe was focused upon the fate of Crete. It was the perfect moment for a patriotic Venetian to affirm the greatness of Venice in the struggle 'contra la potenza vastissima Othomania' " (Clutton).