Robert Hermann Schomburgk, 1841

GUIANA – SCHOMBURGK, Sir Robert Hermann (1804-1865). Twelve Views in the Interior of Guiana. London: Whitehead & Co. for Ackerman & Co., 1841.

The first edition of a rare and important book of views of Guiana. Schomburgk identified and sent to England the Victoria Regia waterlily, and was awarded the Royal Geographic Society's gold medal for his scientific work. James Morrison, the expedition draftsman, made sketches under the direction of Schomburgk, these were then worked up by Charles Bentley in London, and plates were produced from those finished sketches. Abbey Travel, 720; Sabin 77796.

Folio (525 x 325mm). 2-page subscribers' list. Hand-colored additional lithographed title; engraved map by John Murray, hand-colored in outline; 12 hand-colored lithographed views by George Barnard, Coke Smyth and P. Gauci after Charles Bentley; wood-engraved in-text illustrations (spotting to plates). Contemporary calf (boards detached).

Please Note: The binding is quarter roan, and not full calf.