Polynesia: or an historical account of the principle islands in the south sea, including New Zealand...
Edinburgh: Oliver & Boyd, 1843. 8vo. 440 pp., including full-page illustrated half-title and index. Second Edition. Folding map of Australia and Polynesia. Contemporary full calf, a bit worn, prize binding with gilt on the top cover and a bookplate indicating fifth prize for scholarship awarded to John D. Neill of Edinburgh Academy, 1844. A fantastic copy. Item #15286
Second edition. The author provides a history of the South Sea Islands and their inhabitants, beginning with their supposed origin and describing the environment when first discovered by the Europeans. The work includes chapters on the Georgian and Society Islands; the Austral Islands; Cook’s Islands; Tonga, Fiji and Navigators’ Islands; New Hebrides, The Louisiade, Solomon, and Ladron Islands; Sandwich Islands; New Zealand; and the past and present Polynesia. The author’s purpose of this work was both “to study the actual condition of the inhabitants in regard to civilization, commerce, and the arts of social life” as well as “to throw light on the introduction of Christianity and civilization into the islands.” Russell (1781-1848) was bishop of Glasgow and Galloway.
Price: $250.00