Burmann, Johannes

FIRST EDITION, 4to (280 x 230mm.), first title printed in red and black with engraved vignette, sectional titles, 100 engraved plates, a few early annotations, twentieth-century half calf over cloth-covered boards, edges uncut, some dampstaining, binding somewhat worn

Hunt 508, Nissen BBI 302; Stafleu TL2 929

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."

Using Linnaean nomenclature for his descriptions, Burmann took 33 plants from the Codex Simon van der Stel, 34 from the Herbarium Witsenianum, and 92 from the Codex Witsenii which constitute some of the earliest known illustrations of plants from the Cape of Good Hope. Most or all of the plates are based on drawings by Hendrik Claudius of Breslau, who accompanied Simon van der Stel on an expedition to Namaqualand in 1685-1686. Claudius's drawings were later acquired by Burgomaster Nikolaas Witsen of Amsterdam.