Lot 252
  • 252

[Wood, Robert]

Estimate
800 - 1,200 GBP
Log in to view results
bidding is closed

Description

  • Les ruines de Balbec, autrement dite Heliopolis dans la Coelosyrie. London: 1757
  • paper
FIRST FRENCH EDITION, folio (541 x 361mm.), 47 engraved plates, numbered I-XLVI (plate 3 bound in two parts), some folding and/or double-page, contemporary calf, gilt edges, light scattered spotting, one plate proud, binding somewhat worn

Provenance

Marquess of Lansdowne, armorial bookplate

Literature

cf. BAL RIBA 3706; Blackmer 1835; Fowler 444 (all English editions); not in Atabey

Condition

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."

Catalogue Note

This work was a sequel to the author's acclaimed Ruins of Palmyra (1753, see lot 250) and if anything was even more successful and influential. The Temple of Venus at Balbec was adopted by Chambers at Kew in 1761 (see lot 261) and imitated more exactly by Flitcroft at Stourhead. This French edition appeared around the same time as the English edition.