Belcher, Sir Edward

FIRST EDITION, 2 volumes, 8vo (235 x 142mm.), 3 folding maps in pocket of volume 1, 19 lithographed plates, 16pp. advertisements at end of vol.1, original blue-green ribbed cloth, yellow endpapers, light spotting, repair to vol.1 title, slightly rubbed, spines sunned

P. Allan Fraser, inscriptions partially removed from titles

Hill (2004) 102; Sabin 4390

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."

Edward Belcher (1799-1877) took over command of HMS Sulphur when the previous captain, Frederick Beechey fell ill at Valparaiso, Chile.

The intention of the voyage was exploratory, to survey the Pacific coast of North and South America and the Pacific basin. “The various harbours along the coast of California and northwest to Alaska were surveyed, and a month’s journey in open boats was made up the Sacramento River from San Francisco Bay. The Hawaiian Islands, the Marquesas, the Society Islands, the Tonga Islands, the New Hebrides, the Solomon Islands, New Guinea, etc., were visited” (Hill). On the same voyage, the Sulphur was also engaged in the First Opium War.