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LAFITAU, Joseph François (1681-1746). Moeurs des sauvages amériquains, comparées aux moeurs des premiers temps. Paris: Saugrain l'aîné & Charles Estienne Hochereau, 1724.
2 volumes, 4o (255 x 189 mm). 42 engraved plates including frontispiece, one engraved map of America, engraved head-piece. Contemporary French calf gilt, front covers with small angel tools at the corners, arms in gilt at center of each cover, spines gilt, red morocco lettering pieces (a few scratches and small stains).
FIRST EDITION. Lafitau was a Jesuit missionary to the Iroquois between 1712 and 1718. This work is the best summation of the life and society of the American Indian to that date, and was admired by ethnographic authorities from Charlevoix to Field. Lafitau provides a highly detailed compendium of the social customs and religious practices of the ancient, Asian, and North American cultures. Comprehensive and meticulous in its information on the Iroquois and other northern tribes, among whom Lafitau lived for many years. The illustrations show numerous Indian customs and views of their villages. Alden & Landis 724/97; Field 850; Howes L-22; Lande 494; Sabin 38596; Staton & Tremaine/TPL 158; Streeter sale I:121. (2)
2 volumes, 4o (255 x 189 mm). 42 engraved plates including frontispiece, one engraved map of America, engraved head-piece. Contemporary French calf gilt, front covers with small angel tools at the corners, arms in gilt at center of each cover, spines gilt, red morocco lettering pieces (a few scratches and small stains).
FIRST EDITION. Lafitau was a Jesuit missionary to the Iroquois between 1712 and 1718. This work is the best summation of the life and society of the American Indian to that date, and was admired by ethnographic authorities from Charlevoix to Field. Lafitau provides a highly detailed compendium of the social customs and religious practices of the ancient, Asian, and North American cultures. Comprehensive and meticulous in its information on the Iroquois and other northern tribes, among whom Lafitau lived for many years. The illustrations show numerous Indian customs and views of their villages. Alden & Landis 724/97; Field 850; Howes L-22; Lande 494; Sabin 38596; Staton & Tremaine/TPL 158; Streeter sale I:121. (2)