Ponevezhsky, A. (editor)

Vokrug Sveta [Around the World], no. 22-23

Saint Petersburg: Molodaya Gvardiya, 1931. Kochergin, N. (cover design). Illustrated wrappers. Item #598

29.5 x 22.5 cm. [24] pages: illustrations. Text in Russian. This copy is in good condition, exhibiting only minor soiling and a text block that is somewhat loose.

Vokrug Sveta, which translates to "Around the World," stands as a Russian geographic magazine with a remarkable history. It holds the distinction of being the longest-running periodical in the Russian language, with its inaugural issue gracing the city of Saint Petersburg in December 1861, almost three decades prior to the launch of the National Geographic Magazine. As a result, it ranks among the world's most venerable popular science publications.

Throughout its existence, Vokrug Sveta endured two suspensions: the first from 1918 to 1927, coinciding with the tumultuous Russian Revolution, and the second from 1941 to 1945, during the harrowing World War II period. Nevertheless, the magazine consistently made a triumphant return and remains in publication to this day.

Notably, Vokrug Sveta served as a precious resource for Soviet readers seeking authentic, vividly illustrated insights into international cultural marvels. This role persisted despite the pressures exerted by Soviet authorities, who advocated for the magazine to focus on domestic tourist destinations within the USSR rather than foreign ones.

Price: $50.00