Ainsworth, William Francis

FIRST EDITION, 2 volumes, 8vo (223 x 139mm.), half-titles, folding map, 32pp. publisher's adverts at end of volume one, original blue cloth lettered and ruled in red, some spotting and browning, folding map a touch worn along lower edge

Ghani p.7; Wilson p.4; not in Atabey

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."

Ainsworth was surgeon and geologist to the British military expedition surveying Mesopotamia in 1835-37 led by Francis Rawdon Chesney. Their aim was to establish the possibility of opening up the Euphrates and the Tigris as a new route to India, as well as to promote British political and commercial interests in the region.