Lot 146
Dalrymple, Alexander. An Historical Collection of the Several Voyages and Discoveries in the South Pacific Ocean, 2 volumes bound in one, first edition, second issue, with dedication in volume one dated 'Jan 1, 1770', half-titles, 5 engraved plates and 7 folding, 4 engraved folding charts, volume one with 'Monthly Review' leaf and 4pp., of errata, very occasional light spotting, nineteenth century half calf, bookplate of Charles Frederic Wood, 4to, London: Printed for the Author, 1770-71
A FINE COPY. Alexander Dalrymple (1737-1808) was a Scottish Geographer and Hydrographer for the British Admiralty. His publication of An Historical Collection was in service of the theory there existed a vast southern continent in the South Pacific, Terra Australis Incognita. His survey of voyages until 1770 was timely, as the return of James Cook in 1775 effectively ended speculation such a continent might exist.
