Description:

Hedin Sven


Sven Hedin, Tibetan Explorer, Archive, 1897-1944

 

Archive is comprised of seven letters inscribed overall and 7x signed by Tibetan explorer and published author Sven Hedin (1865-1952) as "Sven Hedin." Written in German and English, the correspondence dates between 1897-1944. Overall in near fine to very good condition, with expected wear including paper folds and toning, as well as isolated light soiling, chipped edges, closed tears, and staple holes. Accompanied by stamped paper slip from Christie's. From the Collection of Norman Boas of Seaport Autographs and recently purchased at Christie's December 5, 2017 sale.

 

Sven Hedin was a Swedish geographer, explorer, linguist, ethnologist, author, and illustrator who led four spectacular expeditions through Central Asia between 1893-1935. His profusely illustrated and engrossing travelogues captivated Western readers. Select titles include: Through Asia (1899), Central Asia and Tibet: Towards the Holy City of Lhasa (1903), Trans-Himalaya: Discoveries and Adventures in Tibet (1909-1913), and A Conquest of Tibet (1934). This archive dates from the early epoch of his Asian exploration.

 

1) 1p ALS on cream blue-lined bifold paper written in English from Berlin on November 8, 1897 to Mr. I.M. Caller. Each page measures 5.25" x 8.25."

 

In part: "I am very glad…to hear that the interest for my journey is growing. I think the lectures I will give in London will more than every other thing rise the curiosity…" Hedin had just completed his first Tibetan Expedition (1893-1897), where he charted parts of modern day Tajikistan, China, and Tibet.

 

2) 1p ALS on cream blue-lined bifold paper written in English from Stockholm on December 26, 1897 to Mr. Caller. Each page measures 5.25" x 8.25."

 

This letter discusses a business contract probably pertaining to publishing rights in America. In part: "I got the American agreement just now and kept it a couple of days to read it carefully…As soon as possible I sent it back - signed -."

 

3) From Stockholm on March 20, 1898, Hedin wrote Mr. Caller a 1p ALS in English on a 5.25" square folded card. "The 113 drawings or photos from the drawing must as soon as possible be sent to Haclette…I will deliver all MS. Some days before June 15th; and I hope it will be sufficient if I send you the article (8000 words) on April the 30th from Stockholm. Then it depends upon Harper himself…he may be sure that nothing shall be published in Sweden before America." The book here discussed is probably Hedin's Through Asia, a two-volume 600+pp hardcover book with nearly 300 illustrations published by Harper & Brother Publishers in 1899.

 

4) 1p ALS on cream blue-lined bifold paper written in English from Stockholm on September 30, 1898 to Mr. Caller. Each page measures 5.25" x 8.25."

 

Hedin is busy at work again: "In a few days I will write you a more detailed letter about the two new books proposed. You soon will have to send a lot of money to my bankers."

 

5) 1p ALS on cream bifold paper written in German on May 24, 1902 relating to an American business contract. Comes with photocopy. Measures 4.375" x 6.875."

 

6) 2pp ALS on cream bifold paper written in English from Stockholm on February 25, 1904 to a fan. Hedin lists six of his published "books of travel" (with English, German, and Swedish titles) and gives instructions on how to obtain a publicity photo. Measures 5.5" x 7.25."

 

7) Card showing Hedin, dressed in Asian fur-lined garb and pince-nez, leaning in open car door. Opens to reveal a short thank you note in German written in Stockholm on September 16, 1944. Measures 5.75" x 4.75."

 

A unique archive documenting the business dealings of one of the most intrepid explorers of the early twentieth century!

 

Provenance: Ex-Christie's December 5, 2017 sale; Ex-Norman Boas, Seaport Autographs

 


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