ELLIS, WILLIAM.

Polynesian Researches, during a resience of nearly six Years in the South Sea Islands; including Descriptions of the natural History and Scenery of the Islands - with Remarks on the History, Mythology, Traditions, Government, Arts, Manners, and Customs of the Inhabitants. 2 Vols.

London, Fisher, Son, & Jackson, 1829. 8vo. Bound in 2 nice, well-preserved contemp. hcalf. Raised bands, richly gilt spines, title-and tomelabels with gilt lettering. 2 engraved frontispieces (portrait a. Idols). XVI,536;VIII,576 pp., 2 engraved maps (1 folding), 6 engraved plates, 1 plate in woodcut and 16 woodcuts in the text. Printed on good paper, internally fine and clean.

First edition. "The "Rechearches" excited great interest; the book was reviewed in the "Quarterly Review" by Southey, whose judgement was given in the words "A more interesting book we have never perused." The publication of this book went far to redeem the characters of missionaries in the eyes of some who had thought of them as all ignorant and narrow-minded." (DNB).

Order-nr.: 42527