Ross, John

FIRST EDITION, 4to (270 x 205mm.), [6], xl, 252, cxliv pp., dedication leaf, divisional title, 3 folding engraved maps, 29 aquatint plates, 15 coloured by hand, contemporary pale calf gilt, spine gilt in six compartments, red label, marbled endpapers and edges

Charles Tennant, armorial bookplate 

Abbey, Travel 634; Hill (2004) 1488; Sabin 73376

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."

“In January 1818 Ross was appointed to the Isabella, a hired whaler, as commander of an expedition, which with the Alexander, commanded by Lieutenant William Edward Parry, sailed in April to endeavour to make the north-west passage through Davis Strait. Ross's nephew James Clark Ross, in whose career he took a special interest, sailed with him. It was the renewal of the search which had been laid on one side during the war, and resulted in the rediscovery of Baffin Bay, the identification of several points named in Baffin's map, and proof that Buss and James islands did not exist. Ironically, however, when Ross attempted to proceed westward through Lancaster Sound, he was deceived by a mirage and described the passage as barred by a range of mountains, which he named the Croker mountains. He then returned to England, thereby losing his only possibility of penetrating the north-west passage. His report was, in the first instance, accepted as conclusive, and he was promoted to post rank on 7 December 1818” (ODNB).