Venegas, Miguel

2 volumes 8vo (7 7/8 x 4 7/8 in.; 198 x 124mm). 8 images on 4 plates, folding map; one or two stray spots, hole to front free endpaper (vol. I). Contemporary full speckled brown calf, covers with double gilt ruled, spines with raised bands in six compartments with gilt rules, third gilt-numbered, edges speckled red; minor rubbing to extremities, joints weak.  

Thomas Weld (bookplates to front pastedowns; signature to title page of vol. I)

Cowan & Cowan 658; Field 405; Howes V69; Sabin 98845

2 volumes 8vo (7 7/8 x 4 7/8 in.; 198 x 124mm). 8 images on 4 plates, folding map; one or two stray spots, hole to front free endpaper (vol. I). Contemporary full speckled brown calf, covers with double gilt ruled, spines with raised bands in six compartments with gilt rules, third gilt-numbered, edges speckled red; minor rubbing to extremities, joints weak.
The lot is sold in the condition it is in at the time of sale. The condition report is provided to assist you with assessing the condition of the lot and is for guidance only. Any reference to condition in the condition report for the lot does not amount to a full description of condition. The images of the lot form part of the condition report for the lot provided by Sotheby's. Certain images of the lot provided online may not accurately reflect the actual condition of the lot. In particular, the online images may represent colours and shades which are different to the lot's actual colour and shades. The condition report for the lot may make reference to particular imperfections of the lot but you should note that the lot may have other faults not expressly referred to in the condition report for the lot or shown in the online images of the lot. The condition report may not refer to all faults, restoration, alteration or adaptation because Sotheby's is not a professional conservator or restorer but rather the condition report is a statement of opinion genuinely held by Sotheby's. For that reason, Sotheby's condition report is not an alternative to taking your own professional advice regarding the condition of the lot.

First edition in English. This work represents the first attempt at a history of California. "The work of Father Venegas is undoubtedly the most faithful narration we possess, regarding the original condition of the Indians of any part of North America, connected with the history of their gradual progress towards civilization and Christianity" (Field).