STACKELBERG (Otto Magnus von). Greece. Picturesque and topog - Lot 123

STACKELBERG (Otto Magnus von). Greece. Picturesque and topographical views. Paris, I. F. d'Ostervald, 1834. Two volumes in-folio, contemporary half morocco basane, smooth spine, gilt title, tomaison and large rocaille irons (spines faded with occasional epidermis, rubbed edges, dull corners; sporadic, sometimes sustained foxing, several plates browned). Rare first edition of this very fine work, one of the most beautiful collections of views of Greece. "This is Stackelberg's masterpiece, and it is regarded by many as the most beautiful book of Greek views" (Blackmer 1593). It is illustrated with 131 views, including 111 lithographed plates on Chine appliqué and 16 vignettes, based on drawings by Baron de Stackelberg (1787-1837), a collector and draughtsman who took part in an archaeological mission to Greece. Volume 1, devoted to the Peloponnese, contains 59 plates, including 15 double plates, and 8 vignettes for the false title, title and subtitle. Volume 2, devoted to Septentrional Greece, contains 52 plates, including 12 double plates, and 8 vignettes for the title and subtitle. The explanation of the engravings, written by Baron de Stackelberg, has been revised and completed by Jean-Pierre Rossignol (1803-1893), Professor of Greek Language and Literature at the Collège de France, who also signed the Avertissement. Copy conforms to the Avis leaf placed in volume 2. (Brunet V, 503).