[Holderman, J.B.]

first edition, 4to (206 x 150mm.), woodcut decoration on title, roman and Arabic types, double-page engraved plate of alphabetical characters, 2pp. errata at end, contemporary red morocco, flat spine gilt, without dedication and preface (see footnote)

Atabey 586; Blackmer 824

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."

first edition of the first french-turkish grammar, printed at the first Turkish press in Constantinople which had been established in 1726 by Zaid Aga Effendi, son of the Turkish ambassador to France, and Ibrahim Müteferrika. It was the first book printed in turkey in roman letter.

Holdermann was a Jesuit missionary resident in Constantinople from 1726 until his death in 1730. Written at the behest of the French embassy to the Porte, which had been calling for such a work since 1719, this work was intended for the use of the school of the "Enfants des Langues" (the school of the "dragomans", or official interpreters) at Constantinople.

The collation of the work is problematic, partly because there are no signatures. Blackmer calls for a two-leaf dedication and a one-leaf preface, neither of which are present here.