Even in the 19th century, the world still held secrets. Although the contours of the continents had been mapped out, beyond the known lines lay vast areas of uncertainty – blank spots on the maps, unanswered geographical, ethnological and cultural questions that fuelled the thirst for knowledge of an entire era and led travellers to the remotest regions of the earth.

This spirit of adventure and curiosity gave rise to the private collection of discovery, travel and research literature offered by Venator & Hanstein, the first part of which is now being auctioned in Cologne. From James Cook's epoch-making voyages of discovery to pioneering ethnological studies and Sven Hedin's great expeditions, the collection brings together key works in the history of discovery and research.

Below, we present examples of lots from the auction day by continent.