4 full-page engraved general maps, (approximately 440 x 557mm.), no text on verso, hand-coloured, trimmed at 3 sides (not affecting image), some strengthening and restoration at folds and margins

Burden 333; cf. 192

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 RARE AND MAGNIFICENT SET OF PANELLED MAPS FROM PIERRE D'AVITY'S LES ETATS, EMPIRES, ROYAUMES ET PRINCIPAUTEZ DU MONDE. The geographical work first appeared in 1614. It was later expanded and continued to be published after D'Avity's death in 1635. The map of America: "is drawn from the Picart of 1644, itself derived from the second state of the Janssonius, 1623, after the lower border had been removed. The most noticeable difference is the removal of the two skulls below the cartouche. Both the Picart and this one were thought to have been from the same plate; however, closer examination reveals otherwise. Apart from the lack of any other imprint than that of Hondius, there are numerous typographical differences. The plan of Cartagena above right becomes Cartage, and the longitudinal markers of the Equator are not numbered in South America. Despite the lack of originality IT IS ONE OF THE FEW PRINTED MAPS OF AMERICA WITH DECORATIVE BORDERS, AND AS SUCH HIGHLY DESIRABLE. Unlike the Blaeu of 1617, which had only South American views above the map, three of the views here are of North American towns. These are Pomeiooc, an Indian village in Virginia, the French fort Carolina and S. Augustin in Florida" (Burden).