Arrivabene, Lodovico

4to (190 x 130mm.), woodcut device on title-page, a few large historiated woodcut initials, last leaf blank, late eighteenth century mottled calf over marbled boards, modern spine label, scattered spotting and browning, some marginal pen annotations and damp stains, inscription on title, rubbed

CNCE 315; Cordier, Sinica 18; Löwendahl 37

Condition is described in the main body of the catalogue, 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."

A work in prose "in which China is celebrated as a model state. In short, the China that was revered by Enlightenment writers of the eighteenth century is anticipated in this work of the late sixteenth century... Originally published in 1597, this is the second issue with the first preliminary quire (four leaves) reset with a new wording of the title, new printer and new woodcut device" (Löwendahl).