Catalog Archive
Auction 145, Lot 847

"Atlas zu Alexander von Humboldt's Kosmos...", Humboldt, Friedrich Heinrich Alexander von

Subject: Atlases

Period: 1861 (published)

Publication: Kosmos

Color: Hand Color

Size:
13.5 x 11 inches
34.3 x 27.9 cm
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This is Traugott Bromme's reissue of Alexander von Humboldt's Kosmos. The atlas represents von Humboldt's holistic approach to science, combining the studies of biology, meteorology and geology in order to find the "unity of nature". The resulting maps yield not only a substantial amount of information on a single sheet, but are visually attractive as well.

Included are 39 maps and 3 sheets of engravings focused on topography, geology, isothermal lines and ocean currents to name just a few. The maps are dedicated mostly to the world and Europe, but also include three celestial and one map each of North America, South America, Africa and Asia. In addition to the engravings is a 27-page introduction and table of contents. 4to, rebound in marbled boards with cloth covered spine.

References:

Condition: B+

Text and maps are in very good condition with light toning and a few scattered spots and stains primarily in the blank margins. Map 23 (Germany) has a few red pencil notations in the image. The hinges are starting, the covers are worn and bumped, but the contents are tight.

Estimate: $600 - $800

Unsold

Closed on 6/12/2013

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