Lot 224
  • 224

LAET, L'HISTOIRE DU NOUVEAU MONDE OU DESCRIPTION DES INDES OCCIDENTALES, 1640

Estimate
4,000 - 6,000 GBP
Log in to view results
bidding is closed

Description

  • L'Histoire du Nouveau Monde ou Description des Indes Occidentales. Leiden: Bonaventure & Abraham Elzevier, 1640
FIRST FRENCH EDITION, folio (360 x 230mm.), title in red and black and with woodcut printer's device, 14 engraved double-page maps (uncut and slightly shorter), numerous woodcut illustrations in text, without the 2pp. dedication to Richelieu (as often), contemporary mottled calf, ram device to covers (likely British), [Sabin 38558; STCN 832875007], some spotting and dampstaining, rebacked and slightly worn

Condition

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."

Catalogue Note

First published in 1625, the author maintained the currency of subsequent editions by adding events as they occurred, making this the most complete edition. This edition records the sacking of Bahia, the conquest of Olinda, Itamaraca, Parahiba, and Rio Grande do Norte. There is also a contemporary marginal note in English (p. 259) disputing a claim made in the text on the capture of Truxillo in Honduras. The work was used as an atlas during the second half of the seventeenth century and is recognized for the accuracy of its maps because Laet had access to the latest geographic data as a director of the Dutch West India Company. Burden points out the new, more open style of engraving which was adopted by Blaeu and Jansson.