This lot of 4 evocative engravings come from a later edition of Volney's Voyages en Syrie et en Egypte, possibly the best account of Egypt and Ottoman Syria at the end of the 18th century. Constantin-François Chassebœuf de La Giraudais, Count Volney (1757-1820), known as Volney, was a French philosopher and orientalist who traveled through the Middle East from 1782-85. Upon his return to France, he compiled his notes and wrote this work on his voyage, focusing on political commentary, commercial interests, geographical details, and information on the inhabitants.

A. Vue du Sphinx, (8.9 x 5.6"). This stunning engraving depicts the head of the Sphinx with figures skirmishing below. Engraved by Pierre Tardieu, from a drawing by Louis-Francois Cassas.
B. Vue des Pyramides de Djize, (8.9 x 5.6"). This view shows the pyramids of Giza from the vantage of the Nile. Palm trees, boats, and a small caravan with camels appear in the foreground. Engraved by Tardieu, from a drawing by Cassas.
C. Vue de la Cour Quarree du Temple du Soleil a Balbek, (13.3 x 5.5"). This intricately engraved view presents the Roman temple ruins in Baalbek in Lebanon's Beqaa Valley. Engraved by M.A. Benoist under the direction of Tardieu.
D. Vue des Ruines de Palmyre dans le Desert de Syrie, (19.1 x 5.6"). This panoramic view captures the ruins of Palmyra in Syria. Engraved by Benoist under the direction of Tardieu.

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Condition: B+

Nice impressions, issued folding, with light soiling around the fold lines. A short archivally repaired edge tear just enters the engraved image on the pyramids view.