World--Duval, Pierre.

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 largest of Duval's world maps, and one of the few maps produced in seventeenth century France. Of interest are the tracks of three voyages, those of J. le Maire across the Pacific; that of an anonymous attempt "tenue lan 1665 pour aller au Iapon et a la Chine", crossing Button Bay and pointing towards California Island; and that of an uncompleted route through the north-east passage skirting Novaya Zemlya.

Pierre Duval was one of the most influential and prolific mapmakers and publishers working in Paris in the third quarter of the seventeenth century. He was the son-in-law of Nicolas Sanson, the leading French mapmaker of the period, and Geographer to the King of France from 1650. He was also responsible for providing maps for other Parisian editors of the period; Jollain, De Fer and Berey among others.