FREZIER. VOYAGE TO THE SOUTH-SEA. 1717

FIRST ENGLISH EDITION, 4to (235 x 180mm.), title printed in red and black, 37 engraved plates, maps and plans (18 folding), directions to the binder leaf, contemporary calf, minor browning and staining, slight worming, slightly rubbed with spine ends restored, joints starting

Borba de Moraes, p.329; Hill (2004) 654

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."

Frézier, a French engineer, was contracted to sail to the Spanish possessions in South America to build forts to defend against English and Dutch attacks. At the same time the French government enlisted him to map the west coast of South America. The first part of the work gives an account of the voyage from France around Cape Horn; the second part to the coasts of Chile and Peru and their towns and cities. The postscript by Halley corrects certain geographical errors made by Frézier.