Beschreibung:

Busching A., "A new system of Geography in which is given a general account of the situation, limits, manners, history and constitution of the several Kingdoms and states in the Known world" London 1762. First and only edition in English of the most influential geography of the 18th century. Large 4to, 27x22cm, 6 impressive volumes complete: 665p., 609p., 816p., 592p., 680p., 622p., [132] and the 32 folded copper engraved maps, contemporary full leather, slightly rubbed. V.Murrays (the founder of the famous travel accounts publishing firm Murrays) autograph signature on title, dated 1821, some scattered browning, overall very good. Buschings Geography is the first systematic scientific geography in modern history. It has changed completely the structure of geography with the application of enlightenment principles. The geography was completely detached from religion and ancient, several times, unreliable accounts, and has been based in the actual, available information. This major development will lead to two centuries of explorations around the globe and the birth of modern geography. Anton Busching (17241793), the leading German geographer of 18th century compiled his main work from 1754 to 1761, covering Europe. He had immediate huge success and been translated in English (this edition). German editions had not maps. The originally drawn 32 maps, especially for this edition, were made by Thomas Kitchin the best 18th century English cartographer. Volume two is dealing with European Turkey and the adjacent areas, with all the available information for the Greek world and the Levant of 18th century. An impressive work. Extremely rare.