Tod, James

First edition, 2 volumes, 4to (304 x 228mm.), half-titles, large folding engraved map hand-coloured in outline, 49 plates, mostly engraved, 5 double-page or folding, 3 printed tables, 2 folding, errata leaf at end of volume 1, later red half morocco by Root & Son, spines gilt, top edges gilt, small repaired hole to inner margin of vol.2 frontispiece, occasional spotting, offsetting or very slight staining

the condition of this lot is as described in the catalogue description
"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."

"Tod's work revealed much about the states of Rajasthan which had remained largely unexplored and unmapped by Europeans until the nineteenth century. The deserts of Sind and Rajasthan cover vast areas of the north of India and for centuries the Hindu kingdoms of Rajasthan had been ruled by Rajput princes in a feudal system which preserved the independent traditions of each state. The reputation of these noblemen as patrons of art and their life-style, became as legendary as that of the Mughals. In 1805 Tod and Waugh, who were serving in the Bengal Army, were sent to an embassy of the Maratha ruler, Daulat Rao Sindhia, whose army was then in Udaipur (Mewar). Tod's official duties enabled him to survey the geography and study the history, antiquities, systems of government, languages and customs of the states, which developed into this work. The text is accompanied by many engravings, the original sketches of which were mostly drawn by Waugh." (Godrej & Rohatgi, Scenic Splendours: India through the Printed Image).