Thomson, John.

First edition, 4 volumes, folio (472 x 348mm.), 218 photographs (collotypes) on 96 plates, interleaved with descriptive text, publisher's cloth, upper covers titled and blocked in gilt showing the Confucian Temple, Peking, gilt edges, flat spines with modern morocco lettering labels, some minor stains and light dust-soiling, bindings rebacked retaining original spines and skilfully restored, a little rubbed

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."

One of the first published collections of photographs of China. "Between 1870 and 1872 [Thomson] undertook four distinct journeys, up the north branch of the Pearl River, up the River Min to the area around Foochow, to Peking, and finally up the great Yangtze River. The photographs taken on these journeys form one of the most extensive photographic surveys of any region taken in the nineteenth century. The range and depth of his photographic vision mark Thomson out as one of the most important travel photographers" (ODNB). The present volumes, published following his return to London in 1872, established his reputation as a photographer, traveller and authority on China. Many of the most important Treaty Ports, towns and cities of China are illustrated, including Hong Kong, Hainan, Macau, Taiwan, Swatow, Amoy, Foochow, Ninpo, Shanghai, Nanking, Kiu-kiang, Hanchow, Chefu and Peking, as well as dignitaries, common people and trades.