4 volumes plus atlas. Translated from the original French by John Black. Text volumes: xvii, [1], cxlv, [1], 289, [1]; [2], 531, [1]; [6], 493, [1]; [2], 374, [100] pp. With folding engraved map & 4 engraved tables in Vol. III, and folding plate with 8 engraved maps in Vol. IV. Atlas with printed title page, contents list, 2 aquatint plates, 4 engraved maps, charts & plans (3 folding), and 3 folding engraved profile sections. Text volumes are (8vo) 21.5x12.5 cm (8½x5"), 19th century full gilt-ruled straight-grain morocco, spines tooled in gilt, raised bands; atlas is the same size, period half calf & marbled boards.
Important scientific observations made by Humboldt on Spanish North America. Howes writes that the work is "of superlative California importance." Warren Heckrotte comments that the "The geographical introduction is a valuable account of the cartography of New Spain and provides the basis for the construction of Humboldt's map of New Spain." This set complete with the atlas, though the text and the atlas were purchased separately. Within the atlas, of particular interest is "A Map of New Spain from 16º to 38º North Latitude," which includes present Texas, New Mexico and Arizona. It measures 41x29 cm., is lightly foxed and has a short split at fold. The folding plate in Vol. IV has eight depictions of "Points of Separation and Projected Communications between the South Sea and Atlantic Ocean." The text volumes with bookplates of Henry Porter.
Provenance: Text: Sotheby's 3/4/68; Atlas: 3/68
References: Howes H-786. W-TW 302 for map.
Condition:
Spines of text volumes a bit fading, some fading to cover margines; atlas covers worn, joints cracked with rear cover nearly detached, some foxing within; a very good set, the text volumes attracively bound.