FIRST EDITION, mixed Senate and House issues, 3 volumes, 4to (285 x 220mm.), 133 plates (most tinted, some hand-coloured or folded), including the suppressed nude bathing plate "Public Bath at Simoda" volume 1, p. 408, 22 maps (18 folding), numerous illustrations, modern half morocco gilt, marbled boards, new endpapers, minor spotting and offsetting, a few short tears (mostly to maps), 2 leaves trimmed, sold not subject to return

Hill (2004) 1332; Sabin 30968

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."

"In March of 1852, Perry was appointed commander of a naval expedition to Japan, with orders to induce the Japanese government to enter into diplomatic relations with the United States. Perry believed that the only way to force Japan to abandon her isolationist foreign policy was through a display of superior naval force. After his entry into Araga Harbour on July 1853, the Japanese were eventually compelled to accept a treaty stipulating better treatment of shipwrecked seamen and opening the ports of Hakodate and Shimoda. The most significant result, however, was that Perry's visit contributed to the collapse of the feudal regime and to the subsequent modernization of Japan" (Hill).