Russian Fleet.

16mo (102 x 62mm.), [2], 92, [14]pp. (*^{1 A-D8 E6 S8 (-S8)), binding: contemporary English calf, spine gilt in compartments, without final blank leaf, joints broken, lettering-piece chipped}

Joannes Albertus Fabricius, signature on title-page (cropped)

not in Drage

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 Russian navy was created by Peter the Great with the help of English seamen at a time when the English Navy was pre-eminent in European (and Baltic) waters. Peter took a great personal interest in shipbuilding and sailing, making a trip to England in 1698 specifically for the purpose of learning about ships and hiring experienced personnel to train and develop his nascent fleet.

This manual of signals to be used by the Russian Navy forms part of a general publishing programme instituted by Peter to codify naval practice and administration, culminating in the Naval Statute of 1720, which included a section on signals.

rare: we have been unable to trace another copy of this edition, although a later edition of 1715 is recorded in the Library of Congress.

This is also one of the first books to be printed in Peter's new "civic" typeface, introduced in 1708, distinctively different from the traditional font used for Church Slavonic in order to simplify and regularise the printing of non-religious texts.