Item 127 is The History of Shanghai, by George Lanning and Samuel Couling. In 1906, the municipal government determined there needed to be a comprehensive history of the city, everything up to that point deemed inadequate. George Lanning was hired on to do the job, and spent 13 years preparing this work. Unfortunately, he died before it was quite finished, with Mr. Couling brought in to complete the history. It was published in 1921. It contains 11 plans and plates, including a folding panoramic view of the city. €875 (US $1,100).

Item 62 marks the end of one of the most powerful companies of the 17^th and 18^th centuries. Formed in 1602, the Dutch East India Company effectively ruled today's Indonesia, controlling much of the trade with Asia. It was a mix between private enterprise and government power, acting as both. However, after years of struggle, its situation deteriorated rapidly toward the end of the 18^th century, and by 1800, it was gone. Item 62 is a broadside headed Gelykheid, Vryheid, Broederschap. Publicatie. Dated December 30, 1799, it announces that the Dutch Committee of the East India Trade, successor to the East India Company, has been granted a monopoly on the tea trade. €350 (US $440).

Here is one for railroad buffs. It is an 1876 wood engraving labeled Starting the First Railway Train in China at Shanghai – Opening the Woosung Line to Kungwang. It was published by The Graphic. See image this page. Item 42. €75 (US $94).

Gert Jan Bestebreurtje Rare Books may be reached at +31 (0)347 322 548 or info@gertjanbestebreurtje.com. Their website is www.gertjanbestebreurtje.com.