Burchell, William John

FIRST EDITION, 2 volumes, 4to (264 x 208mm.), half-titles, large folding map, 20 hand-coloured engraved plates, some folding, errata, modern grey calf gilt, morocco spine labels, new endpapers, without the 'Hints on Emigration' (Abbey suggests that these were only included in some copies), plate 1 repaired, a few plates trimmed affecting imprint, minor spotting and offsetting, small tear to map

Sale in these rooms, 8 May 1986, lot 379

Abbey Travel, 327; Czech (Africa) p. 27; Mendelssohn 1:224; Tooley (1954) 116

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."

"The most valuable and accurate work on South Africa published up to the first quarter of the nineteenth century" (Mendelssohn). Burchell explored 4,500 miles of the interior of South Africa between June 1811 and April 1815. He returned with natural history specimens and 500 drawings, some of which were engraved to illustrate the present work.