Rare Book Monthly

Articles - March - 2025 Issue

The New York ABAA Book Fair April 3-6: the official announcement

You won't be alone!

You won't be alone!

If its April, it’s time to plan to be In New York for the ABAA Book Fair April 3-6

 

The ABAA New York Antiquarian Book Fair Celebrates 65 Years of Literary Treasures – April 3-6, 2025

NEW YORK CITY (January 2025): The ABAA New York International Antiquarian Book Fair (NYIABF) - officially sanctioned by Antiquarian Booksellers' Association of America (ABAA) and International League of Antiquarian Booksellers (ILAB) and produced and managed by Sanford L. Smith + Associates - is set to return to the iconic Park Avenue Armory in New York City from April 3-6, 2025, celebrating its 65th Edition.

The ABAA New York International Antiquarian Book Fair (NYIABF) stands as one of New York’s cultural cornerstones, returning to the city as a must-see event of the Spring season. Known as the world’s premier antiquarian book fair, this year’s edition will showcase more than 200 exhibitors from across the globe and cementing its status as an internationally renowned event. With its unique blend of history, literature and art, the fair attracts a diverse mix of collectors, from seasoned bibliophiles and literary icons to new enthusiasts and young collectors eager to discover rare and accessible treasures. Prices for items at the fair range from modest finds starting at $50 to multimillion-dollar rarities.

The 65th edition of the NYIABF will offer an impressive range of collectibles across various disciplines, including art, science, medicine, literature, history, gastronomy, fashion, first editions, Americana, philosophy, children’s books and much more. Whether you’re drawn to reli- gious texts, historical manuscripts, groundbreaking scientific works, or rare illustrated editions, the fair’s selection spans every conceivable subject and genre, representing the full breadth of human knowledge and culture.

In celebration of its 65th edition, NYIABF is thrilled to announce the expansion of its Ambassador Program, welcoming a diverse group of passionate collectors, influencers, and industry lead- ers from across various fields, including rare books, ephemera, jewelry and watches, design, and more. This exclusive program invites individuals who are committed to celebrating the rich world of antiquarian books and collectibles to help promote and elevate the fair’s legacy. Ambassadors will play an essential role in spreading the word about the fair, helping to engage new audiences and raise awareness among collectors, curators, and enthusiasts alike. Members will be officially announced closer to the fair,

The fair will proudly host exhibitors from 14 countries, including Argentina, Austria, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, and the United States. This diverse global presence underscores the fair’s reputation as a truly international event. U.S. exhibitors highlight the incredible range of rare material avail- able domestically.

Bringing together a dynamic mix of participants, this year's fair features both new and returning dealers bringing fresh perspectives and exciting selections. New participants, as well as those re- turning after a hiatus, include notable names such as Nick Aretakis - Americana, Auger Down Books, Back in Time Rare Books, Division Leap, Librairie Pierre Coumans, De Simone Com- pany, Dungeness Books, Nudelman Rare Books, Pingel Rare Books, Langdon Manor Books, Seth Kaller, Hyraxia Books, Champion Christophe Gilles Georges, and Fugitive Materials.

Exhibitors

In its 65th edition, the NYIABF continues to uphold the distinguished tradition of showcasing exceptional material from both American and international antiquarian booksellers. This year, the fair features 106 U.S. booksellers alongside strong global participation, with exhibitors coming from the United Kingdom (35), France (17), Italy (4), Germany (5), Netherlands (6), Austria (3), Denmark (2), Spain (1), Switzerland (1), Argentina (1), Hungary (1), Belgium (1), and Japan (1). The lineup also includes booksellers from one country making their debut at the fair, further enriching the diversity and international appeal of the event.

A full list of exhibitors may be found here: https://www.nyantiquarianbookfair.com/dealers

 

Location

Park Avenue Armory
643 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10065 www.armoryonpark.org

Preview: $75 (Includes one daily re-admis- sion)
Single-Day Admission: $32
Students: $10 (with valid ID - at the door only)

Run of Show: $65

 

ABAA New York International Antiquarian Book Fair www.nyantiquarianbookfair.com
Facebook @nybookfair | Instagram @nybookfair | Twitter @nybookfair
Tag us on social media: #NYIABF25 #NYIABF
Produced by Sanford L. Smith + Associates | www.sanfordsmith.com | (212) 777-5218

Media Contacts

Andrey & Melissa, LLC nybookfair@andreyandmelissa.com

About Antiquarian Booksellers’ Association of America (ABAA)

The Antiquarian Booksellers' Association of America was founded in 1949 to promote interest in rare and antiquarian books and book collecting, and to foster collegial relations. We strive to main- tain the highest standards in the trade. All members agree to abide by the ABAA's Code of Ethics. While our members sell, buy, and appraise books and printed matter, our staff can assist you with finding a bookseller and with other trade-related matters.

About International League of Antiquarian Booksellers (ILAB)

Established in 1949, the International League of Antiquarian Booksellers (ILAB) is a global net- work of 22 national antiquarian booksellers' associations, representing over 1600 affiliated rare booksellers based in 37 countries worldwide. ILAB affiliated businesses share a worldwide reputation for high quality, knowledge, expertise, and experience and adhere to ILAB's Code of Usages and Customs. All exhibitors at an ILAB-sanctioned fair are affiliated to the League. ILAB strives to uphold and improve professional standards in the trade, to promote honorable conduct in busi- ness, and to contribute in various ways to a broader appreciation of the history and art of the book. ILAB, whose official languages are English and French, is a registered Company Limited by Guarantee in the United Kingdom.

About Sanford L. Smith + Associates

For over 40 years, SLSA has been producing world-class fine and decorative art fairs and book fairs. SLSA's current portfolio includes renowned events such as Salon Art + Design, ABAA New York International Antiquarian Book Fair, The ADAA Art Show, ESA Ephemera Fair, and more. In 2024, after the retirement and passing of its founder, Sanford L. Smith, SLSA’s leadership mantle was passed to partners, Jennifer Stark (President & CEO), Nicky Dessources (Vice President & Executive Director of Salon), and Jill Bokor (Chairwoman Emeritus), who will see the company and brands it represents into the future. They look forward to continuing Sanford Smith’s legacy and taking the company into new and exciting territory in the coming years.

Rare Book Monthly

  • Il Ponte, Feb. 25-26: HAMILTON, Sir William (1730-1803) - Campi Phlegraei. Napoli: [Pietro Fabris], 1776, 1779. € 30.000 - 50.000
    Il Ponte, Feb. 25-26: [MORTIER] - BLAEU, Joannes (1596-1673) - Het Nieuw Stede Boek van Italie. Amsterdam: Pieter Mortier, 1704-1705. € 15.000 - 25.000
    Il Ponte, Feb. 25-26: TULLIO D'ALBISOLA (1899-1971) - Bruno MUNARI (1907-1998) - L'Anguria lirica (lungo poema passionale). Roma e Savona: Edizioni Futuriste di Poesia, senza data [ma 1933?]. € 20.000 - 30.000
    Il Ponte, Feb. 25-26: IL MANOSCRITTO RITROVATO DI IPPOLITA MARIA SFORZA. TITO LIVIO - Ab Urbe Condita. Prima Decade. Manoscritto miniato su pergamena, metà XV secolo. € 280.000 - 350.000
  • Sotheby's Fine Books & Manuscripts
    Available for Immediate Purchase
    Sotheby’s: Balthus, Emily Brontë. Wuthering Heights, New York: The Limited Editions Club, 1993. 6,600 USD.
    Sotheby’s: Charles Dickens. Complete Works, Philadelphia & London: J.B. Lippincott Company & Chapman & Hall, LD, 1850. Limited Edition set of 30 volumes. 7,500 USD.
    Sotheby’s: John Lennon, Yoko Ono. Handwritten Letter from John Lennon and Yoko Ono to their Chauffer. 1971. 32,500 USD.
    Sotheby’s: Winston Churchill. First edition of War Speeches, Cassell and Company, Ltd., 1941. Set of 7 volumes. 5,500 USD.
    Sotheby’s: Andy Warhol, Julia Warhola. Holy Cats First Edition, Signed by Andy Warhol. 1954. 30,000 USD.
  • Old World Auctions (Feb 11):
    Lot 11. Blaeu's Superb World Map on a Polar Projection (1695) Est. $5,500 - $7,000
    Old World Auctions (Feb 11):
    Lot 36. Schedel's Ancient World Map with Humanoid Creatures (1493) Est. $14,000 - $17,000
    Old World Auctions (Feb 11):
    Lot 49. One of the First Lunar Globes to Show the Far Side of the Moon (1963) Est. $1,000 - $1,300
    Old World Auctions (Feb 11):
    Lot 5. The First World Map with Lavish Allegorical Vignettes of the Continents (1594) Est. $15,000 - $17,000
    Old World Auctions (Feb 11):
    Lot 55. Anti-British Propaganda Map with Churchill as an Octopus (1942) Est. $2,000 - $2,300
    Old World Auctions (Feb 11):
    Lot 197. One of the Most Influential Maps of Westward Expansion (1846) Est. $9,500 - $12,000
    Old World Auctions (Feb 11):
    Lot 10. Scarce Pitt Edition of Carte-a-Figures Map of the World (1680) Est. $9,500 - $11,000
    Old World Auctions (Feb 11):
    Lot 220. A Fine, Early Rendering of San Francisco (1874) Est. $2,200 - $2,500
    Old World Auctions (Feb 11):
    Lot 707. Hand-Colored Image of the Presentation of Jesus with Gilt Highlights (1450) Est. $1,600 - $1,900
    Old World Auctions (Feb 11):
    Lot 80. One of the Most Important Maps Perpetuating the Myth of the Island of California (1680) Est. $3,250 - $4,000
    Old World Auctions (Feb 11):
    Lot 725. Homann's Atlas Featuring 26 Folio-Sized Maps in Original Color (1715) Est. $4,500 - $5,500
    Old World Auctions (Feb 11):
    Lot 169. One of the Earliest Maps to Show Philadelphia (1695) Est. $4,750 - $6,000
  • Gros & Delettrez, Feb. 11: DALVIMART, Octavien ou d’ALVIMAR(T). The Costume of Turkey
    Gros & Delettrez, Feb. 11: DALVIMART, Octavien ou d’ALVIMAR(T)]. CLARK. The Military Costume of Turkey
    Gros & Delettrez, Feb. 11: HOMMAIRE DE HELL, Ignace-Xavier. LAURENS, Jules. Voyage en Turquie et en Perse
    Gros & Delettrez, Feb. 11: POSTEL, Guillaume. De la République des Turc
    Gros & Delettrez, Feb. 11: PREZIOSI, Amadeo. Stamboul. Souvenir d’Orient.
    Gros & Delettrez, Feb. 11: COSTUMES. EMPIRE OTTOMAN.
    Gros & Delettrez, Feb. 11: PRISSE D'AVENNES, Achille Constant T. Emile. L'Art Arabe
    Gros & Delettrez, Feb. 11: PRISSE D'AVENNES. Histoire de l'art Egyptie
    Gros & Delettrez, Feb. 11: BESANCENOT, Jean. Costumes et types du Maroc.
    Gros & Delettrez, Feb. 11: COSTUMES OTTOMANS. Suite de figures ottomanes à l’aquarelle
    Gros & Delettrez, Feb. 11: LES MILLE ET UNE NUIT, contes arabes
    Gros & Delettrez, Feb. 11: SCHLEGEL, Hermann et A. H. VERSTER van WULVERHORST. Traité de Fauconnerie - Planches
    Gros & Delettrez, Feb. 11: THEVENOT, Melchisédec. Relation de divers voyages curieux
    Gros & Delettrez, Feb. 11:
  • Forum Auctions
    Online: India
    Ends 19th February 2026
    Forum, Feb. 19: Lot 40
    Ramasvami (Kavali Venkata). A Digest of the Different Castes of India, 83 charming hand-coloured lithographed plates, Madras, 1837. £5,000-7,000
    Forum, Feb. 19: Lot 50
    Watson (John Forbes) & John William Kaye. The People of India: A Series of Photographic Illustrations...of the Races and Tribes of Hindustan, 8 vol., 480 mounted albumen prints, 1868-75. £4,000-6,000
    Forum, Feb. 19: Lot 53
    Afghanistan.- Elphinstone (Hon. Mountstuart). An Account of the Kingdom of Caubul, first edition, hand-coloured aquatint plates, a fine copy, 1815. £2,000-3,000
    Forum, Feb. 19: Lot 57
    [Album and Treatise on Hinduism], manuscript treatise on Hinduism in French, 31 watercolours of Hindu deities, Pondicherry, 1865. £3,000-4,000
    Forum, Feb. 19: Lot 62 Allan (Capt. Alexander). Views in the Mysore Country, [1794]. £2,000-3,000
    Forum Auctions
    Online: India
    Ends 19th February 2026
    Forum, Feb. 19: Lot 76
    Bird (James). Historical Researches on the Origin and Principles of the Bauddha and Jaina Religions..., first edition, lithographed plates, Bombay, American Mission Press, 1847. £3,000-4,000
    Forum, Feb. 19: Lot 100
    Ceylon.- Daniell (Samuel). A Picturesque Illustration of the scenery, animals, and native inhabitants, of the Island of Ceylon: in twelve plates, 1808. £5,000-7,000
    Forum, Feb. 19: Lot 123
    D'Oyly (Charles). Behar Amateur Lithographic Scrap Book, lithographed throughout with title and 55 plates mounted on 43 paper leaves, [Patna], [1828]. £3,000-5,000
    Forum, Feb. 19: Lot 139
    Gandhi (known as Mahatma Gandhi,) Fine Autograph Letter signed to Jawaharlal Nehru, Sevagram, Wardha, 1942, emphasising the importance of education in rural communities. £10,000-15,000
    Forum Auctions
    Online: India
    Ends 19th February 2026
    Forum, Feb. 19: Lot 140
    Gantz (John). Indian Microcosm, first edition, Madras, John Gantz & Son, 1827. £10,000-15,000
    Forum, Feb. 19: Lot 146
    Grierson (Sir George Abraham). Linguistic Survey of India, 11 vol. in 20, folding maps, original cloth, Calcutta, Superintendent Government Printing, 1903-28. £2,000-3,000
    Forum, Feb. 19: Lot 195
    Madras.- Fort St. George Gazette (The), No.276-331, pp.493-936 and Index to all of 1834 at end, modern half calf, Madras, 2nd July - 31st December 1834. £2,000-3,000
    Forum, Feb. 19: Lot 205
    Marshall (Sir John) and Alfred Foucher. The Monuments of Sanchi, 3 vol., first edition, 141 plates, most photogravure, [Calcutta], [1940]. £3,000-4,000

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