Charles M. Doughty – Arabia Deserta – 1921 edition

This is a first printing of the 1921 edition of Doughty’s unique work on Arabia, originally published in 1888.

Travelling out from Damascus, Doughty spent several years living among Bedouins in the 1870s, attempting to reach Mecca, producing one of the most important and earliest accounts of the region. It is also unique in its style and scope.

Comprising two volumes, this is one of just 500 copies that were printed, of which 300 were offered for sale – 100 in the US and 200 in the UK.

The 1921 edition also features an introduction by T.E. Lawrence and a new preface by Doughty. It was also the first book to be published by London-based Jonathan Cape.

Bound in the original green cloth, with gilt decoration and lettering. Octavo, 22 x14.5cm. With all original plates, folding maps and the coloured cloth-lined folding map present in the rear pocket of Volume I.

Very rare to find in this condition, and a superb addition to any library on Arabian geography and history.