HARRIS, John (1667-1719), compiler

Navigantium atque Itinerantium Bibliotheca; or, a Compleat Collection of Voyages and Travels: consisting of above four hundred of the most authentick writers

London: printed for Thomas Bennet, John Nicholson and Daniel Midwinter, 1705. 2 volumes, folio. (14 3/4 x 9 1/2 inches). 2pp. list of subscribers. 32 engraved plates and maps.

Contemporary calf, panelled in blind, expertly rebacked to style, spines with raised bands in seven compartments, red and black morocco lettering piece

The first edition of this important compilation of world voyages, including descriptions of voyages to America, the Arctic, Africa, the Middle East and China.

A collection of important voyages, which, as Harris himself describes "begins with the most early Discoveries, and Settlements of Trade, and reaches down to the Year 1626, where Purchas ends his Collection. But you will find here a succinct Account, of the Books of very many other Authors, which are neither in Him nor Hackluit ... The Second Volume hath nothing out of Purchas and Hackluit; but is entirely New: Being taken from the best of all the Modern Authors extant ... the Index is so very large and compleat, that you may there readily find the Description of any Part of the World; or an Account of any Bird, Beast, or Plant ... that hath been descib'd by Travellers." The work would be republished in second and third editions, but the first edition has become quite rare. "The first edition is valuable for the original impressions of the fine series of maps by Herman Moll, including a very good one of America. Also there is a map of the world according to Mercator's projection, with improvements, showing the northern coast line and part of the west and south coasts of Australia together with parts of Tasmania and New Zealand. Among the voyages included are those of Magellan, Drake, Cavenish, Schouten, Hawkins, Narbrough, and Dampier" (Hill).

Hill (2004) 774; Sabin 30482; Alden & Landis 705/90.

Item #34365

Price: $9,500.00