[Rarebooks] FS: Proof copy of important color plate book on British Guiana. London: 1841

[Kenneth Karmiole]

(LATIN AMERICA) Schomburgk, Robert Hermann. TWELVE VIEWS OF THE INTERIOR OF GUIANA: From Drawings by Mr. Charles Bentley After Sketches Taken During the Expedition, Carried on in the Years 1835 to 1839... Proof Copy. London: Ackermann and Co. 1841. Tall folio (22-5/8" tall). (8),38pp. With an added color lithographed title (sometimes referred to as a frontispiece), letter-press title, dedication leaf with the arms of the Duke of Devonshire printed in gold, engraved full-page map, and 12 very fine colored lithographed plates, views of the interior of Guiana, many with native people. Two of the twelve plates do not have their corresponding tissue guard. Note: this copy does not have the leaf of subscribers (see below). Orig. publisher's full dark green cloth, title gilt stamped within an ornamental frame on front cover. Neatly rebacked in dark green cloth so similar to the original that you need to look closely to see it. Outer corners of boards somewhat worn. The first view a bit rubbed at the outer edge. A few of the views with light marginal foxing.                         $8,500.00 (trade discount allowed)
A very beautiful and expensive production (4 guineas for a colored copy in 1841!), sold by subscription. This copy (unique?) with the title printed "Proof Copy." at top left was presumably produced to show to potential subscribers, and would not have been published with the leaf of subscribers found in the copies delivered to the subscribers. Additionally, this copy in original full cloth is a binding variant. The book was sold bound in lithographed (not colored) stiff wrappers, or in morocco over marbled boards, or morocco spine over cloth. See Abbey TRAVEL #720. Tooley #447. Borba de Moraes (orig. edition) p.242, stating, "This album is quite rare."

Kenneth Karmiole, Bookseller, Inc.
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