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PSALMANAAZAAR, George: 'An historical and geographical…
Sale Title:
Auction House:
Auction Location:
Melbourne
Date:
17-Jun-2014
Lot No.
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Description:
PSALMANAAZAAR, George: 'An historical and geographical description of Formosa, an island subject to the Emperor of Japan. Giving an account of the religion, customs, manners, &c. of the inhabitants. Together with a relation of what happened to the author in his travels; particularly his conferences with the Jesuits, and others, in several parts of Europe……..' [Dan. Brown, London, 1704]. First Edition. With engraved folding plate showing the 'Formosan Alphabet' (with tear), and another showing 'The Funeral or Way of Burning the Dead Bodies', plus full page engraved plates showing costumes, money, buildings, boats, etc., One of the most fantastic literary forgeries of all times. Psalmanazar (N.F.B. de Rodes), a native of France, led the life of an adventurer. Being instructed by Jesuit tutors in the history and geography of Japan he pretended to be a native of Japan, under influence of chaplain William Innes, to render the story more plausible, this was changed into being a native of Formosa.
Estimate:
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Price:
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Category:
Unclassified