Constant, Samuel Victor

FIRST EDITION, oblong 8vo (190 x 260mm.), 60 full-page colour illustrations, 16 photographic illustrations tipped-in, one mounted paper pattern cut-out, one 'Pa-kua' printed in black, one musical stave, original embroidered brocade stitched with orange cord, printed orange label on upper cover, minor wear to binding

All Under Heaven 35

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

A SCARCE WORK, publishing a thesis by Samuel Victor Constant (1894-?) for a degree of Master of Arts from California College in China. The institution had opened in Beijing in 1910 and later became a college. "Constant's volume presents fifty-four types of peddlers, including vendors of such goods as melon seeds, rice cakes, paper cuttings, ceramics, stoves, and new year's pictures. Also included are men who offer such services and entertainments as fortune-tellers, barbering, knife sharpening, trained-bear performances, and puppet shows" (All Under Heaven).