“THE GOVERNMENT SEEMS TO BE HIGHLY UNPOPULAR, AND PROBABLY WILL NOT HOLD TOGETHER FOR ANY LENGTH OF TIME”: FIRST EDITION OF DE BONELLI’S TRAVELS IN BOLIVIA, 1854, HANDSOMELY BOUND

DE BONELLI, L. Hugh. Travels in Bolivia; with a Tour Across the Pampas to Buenos Ayres, &c. London: Hurst and Blackett, 1854. Two volumes. Octavo, early 20th-century three-quarter green morocco, elaborately gilt-decorated spines, raised bands, top edges gilt. $1750.

First edition of this rare exploration narrative focusing on mid 19th-century Bolivia and surrounding areas, handsomely bound by Brian Frost.

De Bonelli accepted the post of Secretary to H.B.M. Charge d’Affaires at the headquarters of the Bolivian Republic in order to acquire knowledge of the New World. While at his post, he succeeded in exploring most of Bolivia and even in venturing into some of the surrounding countries. He also witnessed the revolution in La Paz on March 12, 1849. His detailed description of the event makes this work particularly valuable to scholars of South American history. Furthermore, he offers fascinating observations on the geography, natural history, and ethnography, all colored by a genuine enthusiasm for the region. Sabin 6299.

Light scattered foxing to text, spines toned to brown. An extremely good copy. Rare.