Martini, Martino

FIRST EDITION, small 8vo (112 x 70mm.), woodcut Jesuit device on title, folding engraved map, contemporary vellum, map cropped at right margin

Cordier, Sinica 623; Löwendahl 107; Lust 440; Western Travellers in China 15

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."

“First edition of this extremely popular work, running to some 25 editions in seven countries between 1654 and 1706” (Löwendahl).

“[Martini] entered China in 1643 during a time of internal unrest… He was, however, able to travel throughout the country as far north as the Great Wall, collecting materials for his survey of China and in so doing determined the astronomical position of many towns and geographical features” (Western Travellers in China).

In 1650 he set off to return to Rome, via Amsterdam, where he assisted with the production of Blaeu’s famous Atlas Sinensis (see lot 15).