Oliphant, Laurence

FIRST EDITION, 2 volumes, 8vo (218 x 130mm.), 5 folding maps, 20 colour or tinted lithographed plates, text illustrations, contemporary blue half morocco gilt by W. Smith of Dundee (blind stamp on preliminary leaf), spines in compartments richly tooled in gilt, marbled edges and endpapers, some spotting (mostly to endpapers)

Peter Carmichael, armorial bookplate and signature on each title dated 1859

Löwendahl 1224; Western Travellers in China 70

Condition is described in the main body of the catalogue, where appropriate. Small tear to large map.
"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."

A VERY GOOD COPY. Lord Elgin was newly appointed High Commissioner to China, when he travelled to China and Japan in 1858-59. There he oversaw the end of the Second Opium War by signing the Treaties of Tianjin in 1858. The noted traveller, Laurence Oliphant, served as Elgin's private secretary on this expedition.