SCOTT, Robert Falcon, Captain (1868-1912). The Voyage of the Discovery. London: Smith, Elder, 1905.
2 volumes, royal 8vo (237 x 160 mm). Photogravure frontispieces, 12 color-printed plates, 5 maps (2 folding in rear pocket), numerous photographic illustrations. Publisher's dark blue cloth gilt. Provenance: Geographical Society of Philadelphia (presentation inscription from Scott).FIRST EDITION, second issue, PRESENTATION COPY, INSCRIBED BY SCOTT on half-title in volume I: "To The Geographical Society of Philadelphia with the Author's Compliments. R.F. Scott. Jan. 4 1906." The British National Antarctic Expedition, 1901-1904, led by Scott who was accompanied by Shackleton and Edward Wilson aboard the Discovery, made the first extensive exploration of the interior of Antarctica. The party reached the furthest south latitude of 82, and examined the coast of Victoria Land and the Ross Ice Shelf. Scott's team made the first balloon ascent on the continent, rising some 700 feet to take the first aerial photograph of the Antarctic. The party returned home in February 1904; by November, an exhibition of the expedition opened at Bruton Galleries, and Scott presented his first lecture about the expedition. He was awarded the Patron's Gold Medal of the Royal Geographical Society, among numerous other awards, including a medal from the Geographical Society of Philadelphia. A VERY FINE ASSOCIATION COPY.
