Book auctions in the 18th century Elbląg

Based on a number of sources (printed, auction catalogues, press advertisements, correspondence, hand-written notes on books, etc.) we have acquired knowledge of a series of at least 37 book auctions held in Elbląg in 18th century, initiated by a municipal councilor, Mr Piotr Poselger, conducted in 1717. The rules of the actions organized in Elblag were not different to those which took place in Gdańsk and Toruń. Catalogues constituted an important element of each auction. Only five have remained today. Most frequently book collections owned by the local clergy, civil servants, college professors and doctors went on sale. On six occasions the so-called anonymous auctions were performed with books coming from different sources and put together by the auctioneer. The collections sold were usually of an average size, from 500 to a little above 2000 items, with a limited number of rare and unique publications and incunables. They did however include a significant proportion of prints related to the region: course books, religious publications  and guide books but also works by some eminent thinkers and scientists from Renaissance until 18th century, as well as magazines and newspapers. Buyers were mostly local collectors, Polish and foreign bibliophiles, such as Józef Andrzej Załuski. Bibliophiles took part in the auctions either in person or through representatives.

I. Imańska