3 volumes. [8], x, 802, *803-*808, 803-917; [2], 779, [1]; [2], 352, *353-*382, 353-740 pp. Several errors in pagination, textually complete. 162 engraved plates, 65 of which are folding. (Folio) 40x25.5 cm (15¾x10"), period full calf. First English Edition.
Translated from the French edition of 1722-8. Notable for the many plates, including maps of the Holy Land, plans of Jerusalem, architectural plans of the Temple, renderings of the Tower of Babel, depictions of Hebrew religious accouterments, etc., etc. This copy from the library of Dr. Benjamin Rush, signer of the Declaration of Independence from Pennsylvania, with his manuscript ownership notation inside the front cover of each volume. Presented to him by the Rev. Dr. Francis Allison, July 10th, 1779. Benjamin Rush and the Rev. Francis Allison were among Pennsylvania's prominent and outspoken abolitionists, though both owned slaves during most of their public careers. The title page of each volume bears an ink stamp "Benjamin Rush, May 1813", Rush died in April, 1813 so this may be the stamp of his son Benjamin or perhaps from the distribution of the estate.
Condition:
Bindings worn, front cover of Volume 1 detached; foxing and browning within; several plates with tears, a few with old repair; internally about very good.