Blaeu, Johannes, and Martino Martini

FIRST EDITION (Latin text), folio (506 x 340mm.), engraved allegorical title, 17 double-page engraved maps, contemporary hand-colour, publisher’s vellum gilt, yapp edges, some oxidisation to pigments, last leaf with repaired tear

Cordier, Sinica 182; Koeman I, Bl 53; Löwendahl 116; van der Krogt 2:501; Western Travellers in China 16

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 FIRST EUROPEAN ATLAS OF CHINA. This was published separately, as here, or as the sixth volume of Blaeu's Theatrum. The maps, after Martino Martini's surveys, display the unique collaboration between the Jesuit Superior of Hangchow, and the Amsterdam cartographer, Johannes Blaeu. The resulting atlas of seventeen maps contains a general map of China, fifteen maps of provinces and a separate map of Japan.