Pius II, Pope (Enea Sylivio Piccolomini)

FIRST EDITION IN ITALIAN, 8vo (151 x 100mm.), woodcut printer’s device on title and at end, old vellum

Western Travellers in China 5; cf. Löwendahl 4 (1503 second edition)

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."

This work was originally published in Latin in 1477. Much of the material on China is taken from the accounts of the merchant Niccolò de’Conti, who was closely questioned by a papal secretary when he returned from the east to Italy in 1441.