DORN, Frank

A Map and History of Peiping with Explanatory Booklet [Peking]

Tientsin-Peiping: The Peiyang Press, Ltd., 1936. Second Printing. Framed under glass. Published as an 8vo booklet attached to a printed cardstock case, map folded within. Opened, the map is large, full-color lithographed pictorial depiction of Peking measuring 34.25" x 29". Booklet cover repeats print and design of the case cover, with 22 pp. of Dorn's informed prose serving as annotation to the map. Map in handsome custom frame with archival-quality UV-protection plexiglass, loose-mounted on acid-free mat. Small pinholes at folds beneath the Hata Men and Shun Chih Men Gates (at intersection of original folds), else an exceedingly vibrant, fresh copy of the later state, showing the Nazi swastika above the German Legation. Near Fine / Case VG+. Item #1507

Dorn credits research to Aldington's "In Search of Old Peking" and Bredon's "Peking." Something of an old China hand himself, Dorn judged neophyte sinophiles by their ability to eat a fried egg with chopsticks. At first glance, one suspects superficial irreverence in Dorn's cartoon treatment of Peking's deep, rich history. On closer look, his profound immersion in Peking's history reveals itself, culminating in a map that continues to give, over and over, with new-found details. The freshest copy we've seen, devoid of the separation at folds often seen.

Price: $3,250.00