Russell Shaw Antiquarian Books - Rare and Antiquarian Books and Manuscripts

Folding map of Sumatra, plate of Rejang, Batta and Lampoon alphabets. Contemporary full tree calf with red morocco label and gilt to spine. Some rubbing to extremities but overall fine. Internal: Bookplate of William Markham of Becca Lodge* to front pastedowns. Some minor spotting in places, small closed tear to outer margin of title. viii, 132, 135-375, index 5pp, [2] errata. Pages 133-134 omitted from pagination but text and register are continuous. --------------- Marsden ‘was encouraged by Sir Joseph Banks and others of the Royal Society to prepare his material for publication. The History of Sumatra that resulted (London, 1783) was the first detailed account of Sumatra to appear in any language.’ (Encyclopaedia Brittanica) ---------- *'William Markham (1710-1807), English divine and archbishop of York, was educated at Westminster and at Christ Church, Oxford. He was one of the best scholars of his day, and attained to the headship of his old school and college in 1753 and 1767 respectively. He held from time to time a number of livings, and in 1771 was made bishop of Chester and tutor to George prince of Wales. In 1776 he became Archbishop of York, and also Lord High Almoner and privy councillor. He was a fierce critic of pamphleteer Richard Price concerning the American rebellion. He was for some time a close friend of Edmund Burke, but his strong championship of Warren Hastings caused a breach. He was accused by Lord Chatham of preaching pernicious doctrines, and was a victim of the Gordon Riots in 1780.' ESTCT 93180

Size: 4to

condition: Near Fine

binding: Contemporary Full Tree Calf