Harris, John | First edition of his collection of voyages

Harris, John

Navigantium atque Itinerantium Bibliotheca: Or, A Compleat Collection of Voyages and Travels: Consisting of above Four Hundred of the most Authentick Writers; ... London: Printed for Thomas Bennet, 1705

2 vols, folio (385 x 240 mm). Engraved frontispiece portraits, title-pages, 20 full-page plates (of 23), 9 maps (2 being of the world; the remainder of contents), some of which folding, in-text illustrations; a few early annotations, 1 or 2 short marginal tears, 2C2 (volume 1) restored at foot, 3Z3 (volume 2) with small hole at foot, 4A1 (volume 2) with small hole affecting text. In contemporary paneled calf, rebacked to style, spines with raised bands in 7 compartments, 2nd and 5th with morocco labels lettered in gilt; boards with some wear, rubbed at extremities, hinges a bit loose, with rear hinge of 1st volume cracked but holding.

First edition of this important history of voyages. An encyclopaedic work, encompassing the whole world, the volume went on to be reprinted in several expanded editions. 

REFERENCE:

BMC; Davidson, pp 37-8; Hill, pp 137-38; ESTC N10531; Hanson 533; Sabin 30482

PROVENANCE:

James Stanley, 7th Earl of Derby (armorial bookplate to verso of title-page)