SANTA TERESA, João José de (1658-1733). Istoria delle guerre del Regno del Brasile accadute tra la corona di Portogallo, e la Republica di Olanda. Rome: heirs of Cobelletti, 1698.

The Crofts copy of the first edition ‘one of the most sumptuous works published in the seventeenth century on a Brazilian subject’ (Borba de Moraes), published under the patronage of Pedro II. The magnificent maps, showing all regions of Brazil, and the views of principal towns were taken from originals in the library of Cardinal Pietro Ottoboni and engraved by the celebrated artist, Giovanni Gerolamo Frezzi. A tipped-in clipping identifies this as the copy owned by Thomas Crofts, a celebrated bibliophile whose extensive library was especially notable for its Spanish and Italian holdings. It appears in Crofts’s sale catalogue as lot 7033, described as ‘rarissimo’. Alden 698/112; Borba de Moraes p.770; JCB(4) 368; Palau 298414; Sabin 76793.

2 parts in one volume, folio (300 x 205mm). Engraved title and 2 portraits of Pedro II and João IV after Antonio Horacio Andreas, engraved by Benedito Farjat, 23 folding maps and plans, woodcut initials, head- and tailpieces (one word on engraved title reinforced in ink, very occasional light spotting or small stain, occasional short tear at plate fold). Late 18th-century red morocco, sides gilt-ruled, black leather spine label, spine lettered in gilt (expert repairs at spine). Provenance: [Thomas Crofts (1722-1781), sale 7 April 1783, lot 7033; tipped in old auction description identifying it as the Crofts copy] – Antonio de Almeida Corre (blindstamp on title).

Please note this lot is the property of a consumer. See H1 of the Conditions of Sale.