SAUER, Martin. - Joseph BILLINGS (1758-1806)

Reise nach den nördlichen Gegenden vom Russischen Asien und America unter dem Commodor Joseph Billings In den Jahren 1785 bis 1794

Weimar: Berlage des Landes-Industrie-Comptoirs, 1803. 8vo. (7 1/2 x 4 3/4 inches). [2], 296pp. Half-title. Large engraved folding map hand colored in outline.

Modern boards, morocco spine label.

Second German edition of this important exploratory voyage to the shores of Alaska, Siberia and Kamchatka, the Aleutian Islands and the Bering Sea.

"Joseph Billings, an Englishman, received an appointment from the Empress of Russia in 1785 to command an expedition to the northwest coast which was ostensibly, at least, a scientific expedition, but in all probability was intended to keep track of the movements of La Perouse" (Wagner). Sauer's account provides a detailed description of the voyage, natives encountered and their customs, and habitations. The large folding map shows the Bering Strait and the land masses on both sides. "Martin Sauer was Secretary to Billings' expedition and ... his narrative was composed from the original, presumably official papers" (Lada-Mocarski).

Howes S117; Sabin 77153; Wagner Northwest Coast, p.214; Lada-Mocarski 58 (London edition); Hill 1528 (London edition); Howgego B96.

Item #27185

Price: $450.00