Magalhaes, Gabriel de

FIRST FRENCH EDITION, 4to (235 x 180mm.), folding engraved plan of Beijing, contemporary speckled calf, gilt spine

John, Bishop of Ossory, bookplate dated 1709; Earls of Macclesfield, bookplate, sale in these rooms, 15 March 2007, lot 3209

Cordier, Sinica 36; Löwendahl 189; Lust 57; Western Travellers in China 27

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."

THE MACCLESFIELD COPY. "The Portuguese Jesuit Gabriel de Magalhaes (1610-77) was born into the family of the eminent explorer Magallan (1470-1521). Magalhaes arrived in Hanchow (Hangzhou) in 1640 and was sent to Chengtu (Chengdu) in Szechwan (Sichuan) province, where he learnt Chinese under the guidance of Fr Lodovico Buglio; he then settled in Peking (Beijing) in 1648 and remained at the Emperor's palace until his death. The original Portuguese manuscript was brought back to Rome by Fr Couplet and presented to Cardinal d'Estrees, who commissioned the translation. The Cardinal was particularly interested in Beijing, which may explain the presence of the plan of the city" (Western Travellers in China).