The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) is set to showcase a unique glimpse into the past with the unveiling of a mid-19th-century map featuring one of the earliest mentions of Abu Dhabi known as “Abuthubbi.” Annotated by a former British Army officer, this historical artefact was used for a lecture on The History of the Arabs in London in April 1844. Priced at £95,000 (Dh435,740), the map will be available at the book fair at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center (Adnec) from April 29 to May 5.
In addition to the “Abuthubbi” map, rare book seller Peter Harrington will also present a 16th-century book titled “Itinerarium Portugallensium” by Fracanzio da Montalboddo, featuring the first modern printed map to the holy city of Makkah. Priced at £450,000 (Dh2.06 million), the woodcut map known as the “Sinus Arabicus” marks the earliest appearance of the Gulf region and the first printed reference to the holy city of Makkah. The selection at ADIBF is curated to showcase the enduring fascination with the Middle East throughout the ages.
Peter Harrington, the owner of the rare book collection, expressed pride in presenting these exceptional rarities in Abu Dhabi at the ADIBF, offering collectors, cultural institutes, enthusiasts, and scholars a unique opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of Middle Eastern history through rare cartographic records. Harrington has been a regular participant at the ADIBF since 2016, with the Middle Eastern market accounting for approximately 10% of its global sales. The 33rd edition of the ADIBF, organized by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Center (ALC), is expected to host over 1,350 exhibitors from 90 countries, up from 1,300 representing 84 countries last year.
