Catalog Archive
Auction 167, Lot 449

One of 250 Copies of the First English Translation of Ptolemy's Geography

"[Facsimile] Geography of Claudius Ptolemy", Stevenson, Edward Luther

Subject: References

Period: 1932 (published)

Publication:

Color: Black & White

Size:
12.4 x 17.1 inches
31.5 x 43.4 cm
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Published by the New York Public Library, this is the first English translation of Ptolemy's Geography. In addition to the eight books of Ptolemy that Stevenson has translated here, there are reproductions of the 27 maps from the Codex Ebnerianus, Donnus Nicolaus Germanus' copy of the Geography. The Ruysch map from the 1508 edition and the New World map from the 1522 edition, with America named in present day South America, are included as well. The book features a fascinating introduction by Joseph Fischer, the German cartographer who at one point in time was thought to have forged the Vinland Map. Only 250 copies of this book were printed; this example is copy number 21. Hardbound in burnt sienna cloth and leather, 167 pp. plus 29 plates.

References:

Condition: B+

Contents are very good with some minor soiling and a library perforation on the title page and library stamp on the verso of the last map. Covers are also very good with minor soiling, light wear, some sunning on the spine at top, and a library catalog number written on the spine at bottom.

Estimate: $700 - $850

Sold for: $3,000

Closed on 3/28/2018

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