Catalog Archive
Auction 113, Lot 715

"[Lot of 2] Le dedans du Palais Imperial, 't Keysers Hof van binnen [and] Platte Grondt van s Keysers Hof in Pekin Forme de la Cour Imperiale de Peking", Nieuhoff, Johann

Subject: China

Period: 1665 (published)

Publication: L' Ambassade de la Compagnie Orientale ... l' Empereur de la Chine

Color: Black & White

Size:
11.6 x 7.6 inches
29.5 x 19.3 cm
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Pair of finely engraved views of the imperial palace in Peking. These views are from the first Dutch description of the Empire of China & one of the few non-Jesuit sources on China of this period. Nieuhoff was the official chronicler & draughtsman for the first embassy to China by the Dutch East India Company (VOC), then at the height of its power. His record of the trip, became the most important source of information about China for Europe in the 17th century.

References:

Condition: B

Soil and damp stains in blank margins not affecting images. Second with split on bottom centerfold just entering engraving, partially closed with archival tape in blank margin.

Estimate: $110 - $150

Sold for: $120

Closed on 12/7/2005

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