Burton, Richard Francis

FIRST EDITION, 8vo, xvi, 398pp., [2, 30, 2pp. adverts], half-title, dedication leaf, folding map, illustrations in the text, original decorated red cloth, black endpapers, bevelled edges, slipcase

Casada 38; Penzer, p.95

A fine copy
"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 biblical location of Midian is situated in the most northerly part of the Arabian Peninsula which is separated from Sinai by the Gulf of Aqaba. As the primary object of these expeditions was to find gold, Burton was therefore able to obtain financial backing from Ismail, the Khedive of Egypt, who was then desperate for new resources. Although no gold was ever found, Burton and his group covered some 2500 miles in four months, brought back twenty-five tons of samples, and surveyed the site of eighteen ancient settlements. Indeed, Burton's survey of the area is held by many to be his greatest contribution to our knowledge of Arabia.