Sketches of Russia.

SVIN'IN, Pavel Petrovich (Paul Svinine).

$2,500.00

Item Number: 146468

London: Printed for R. Ackermann, 1814.

Scarce first edition of this sketch of Russian locations and historical figures. Octavo, bound in three quarter red calf over red cloth boards with gilt titles and ruling to the spine in six compartments within raised gilt bands, rebacked with original spine strip laid down, top edge gilt, color frontispiece portrait of Emperor Alexander, illustrated with fifteen hand-colored aquatint plates and an engraved leaf of music arranging a Russian national song for the guitar. In very good condition with some rubbing to the extremities, light toning throughout.

Pavel Petrovich Svin'in was a prolific Russian writer, painter, and editor known as a "Russian Munchausen" for many exaggerated accounts of his travels. His 'Sketches of Russia' provides a lively description of Russian life and monuments, complete with biographical depictions of Russian leaders and notable illustrations, including a Cossack killing a tiger and a winter carnival with ice mountains.