Arthur Probsthain

Arthur Probsthain is an Oriental and African bookseller, specialising in a range of both factual and fictional literature.
The art, architecture and cultural section is extensive, with a few choice pickings, whilst there are also some beautiful, big ‘coffee-​table’ style books that make great gifts. I recently bought ‘The Bazaar’s of Istanbul’ that’s a colour photography treat for anyones lounge. Alongside the great books are speciality Cd’s, framed oriental etchings, posters and cards. If you’d like to learn Zulu then they also have the «Teach Yourself’ audio guides in the most unexpected languages. They always have a large choice of Arabic inscribed cards that follow the Muslim calender in stock and at the moment they have a lovely range of handmade Japanese ones with paper clad Geisha’s on the front
It’s a very peaceful book shop and even though you’re never further than 3 metres from the assistant (because it’s so small) they never make you feel rushed or as though you have to buy something. They’re quite happy to leave you to your own devices. AP is a very interesting shop and they make such a specialist subject matter very accessible.