Catalog Archive
Auction 157, Lot 198

"[2 Volumes] The True Travels, Adventures and Observations of Captaine John Smith, in Europe, Asia, Africke, and America...", Smith, John (Capt.)

Subject: Mid-Atlantic United States

Period: 1819 (published)

Publication:

Color: Black & White

Size:
5.5 x 8.6 inches
14 x 21.8 cm
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This is the first American edition of Smith's history published in Richmond, Virginia. Most notably, it contains a reproduction of his famous map entitled Virginia. According to Verner's "Smith's Virginia & its Derivatives," this map was copied from State 10 except that William Hole's imprint is missing at bottom. Included with the map are two folding plates depicting scenes of Smith's travels in North America and elsewhere, a small portrait, and coat of arms. Vol 1 (247 pp.) includes frontispiece portrait, folding map, 2 folding plates. Vol 2 (282 pp.) includes frontispiece coat of arms. Original full tree calf with red label and gilt title on spine.

References: Verner (MCC-45) p. 28; cf. Burden #164.

Condition: B

The folding plates and folding map have light offsetting and minor foxing. The map has a 2" binding tear and the plates each have a 1" binding tear. Overall the text has light toning and moderate to heavy foxing. Covers are lightly worn with a number of small abrasions primarily along the edges. A previous owner's bookplate is on the front pastedown of each volume.

Estimate: $900 - $1,100

Sold for: $850

Closed on 5/4/2016

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