Lot 75
  • 75

HAMOND, A PARADOX. PROOVING THAT THE INHABITANTS OF THE ISLE CALLED MADAGASCAR, 1640

Estimate
3,000 - 4,000 GBP
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Description

  • A paradox. Prooving that the inhabitants of the Isle called Madagascar, or St. Laurence, (in Temporall things) are the happiest people in the world. Whereunto is prefixed, a briefe and true description of that island. London: Nathaniell Butter, 1640
FIRST EDITION, 2 parts in one volume, small 4to (186 x 140mm.), sectional title, later calf gilt by Riviere & Son, London

Literature

ESTC 12735

Condition

Condition is described in the main body of the catalogue, where appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

RARE. Hamond's fascinating albeit overly fanciful accounts of the island of Madagascar. Sent by the East India Company to assess the feasibility of colonizing the island, Hamond produced these two reports. The first comprises a description of the island, its climate and indigenous people while the second relays the argument for the happiness of the Madagascans and the benefits the country would have to offer as an outpost for servicing the company's ships en route for the Persian Gulf and the Far East (see lot 76). Hamond tells about their great friendliness and Edenic innocence: "We beyond expectation, found them very affable, courteous, and just in their dealings, and lived among them about four moneths, with that familiarity and friendship, as if we had beene all of one Nation, and their Country had beene our owne".