FIRST EDITION, second issue (see footnote), 2 volumes, folio (343 x 225mm.), engraved additional title in volume 1 (dated 1727), titles in red and black, dedication, list of subscribers, 45 engraved plates and maps (including large map of Japan), mostly double-page or folding, 2 appendices, contemporary blindstamped calf, covers blindstamped, a few tears, lower margins slightly dampstained, rebacked to style, repaired at extremities

Fintray House Library, bookplates; sale in these rooms, 25 November 1982, lot 215

Cordier, Japonica 414-415; cf. Landwehr (VOC) 530, note

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."

"[Kaempfer's] History of Japan was for more than a century the chief source of Western knowledge of the country. It contains the first biography of Kaempfer, an account of his journey, a history and description of Japan and its fauna, a description of Nagasaki and Deshima; a report on two embassies to Edo with a description of the cities which were visited on the way; and six appendices, on tea, Japanese paper, acupuncture, moxa, ambergris, and Japan's seclusion policy" (DSB). This second issue (sometimes called a second edition), differs from the first in that it contains an additional "Second appendix... being part of an authentic journal of a voyage to Japan, made by the English in the year 1673", dated 1728. Volume 1 dated 1728 and volume 2 dated 1727.