Black, John Reddie, editor.

First edition, 18 (of 29) monthly parts (see footnote), 4to (276 x 214mm.), 112 albumen prints, mounted on card within printed caption and border, some mounted two to a sheet, one loose, and one lithographed plate (in vol.3 no.4), publisher's printed wrappers, preserved within acid-free sleeves in an archival box, some chipping and minor tears, some wrappers lacking spine or slightly worn

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, 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."

The largest collection of this rare photographically illustrated periodical to be offered at auction in thirty years, comprising 18 parts of the New Series: volume 1, nos.1-6; volume 2, no.1; volume 3, nos.4-6; volume 4, nos.1-6; and volume 5, nos.1-2. In May 1870 J.R. Black first conceived of publishing a fortnightly newspaper illustrated with original photographs and on 30 May 1870 the first issue of The Far East appeared. In 1873 the publication adopted a new format and was issued as a monthly journal until June 1875; the publication was suspended until a new series began in July 1876, which was published simultaneously in Tokyo, Shanghai and Hong Kong and ran until November 1878.