John White
The Ancient History of the Maori, in 6 vols, one inscribed by the author. Together with the scarce book of Illustrations.
1st ed. George Didsbury, Government Printer, Wellington 1887-1891. 8vo. 6028. Vol I (1887): xii, 182, 164p, frontis (b&w), 3 b&w plates, fold genealogical table, errata tipped in on p[1]. Vol II (1887): x, 196, 177p, frontis (b&w), 5 b&w plates. Vol III (1887) xii, 318, 126p, frontis (b&w fold), 10 b&w plates. Vol IV (1888): x, [3]-246, 236p, frontis (b&w), 12 b&w plates. Vol V (1888): ix, [2]-272, 174p, 'Opinions of the Press' (3p), frontis (b&w), 12 b&w plates, map in text. Vol VI (1890): x, 264, 70p, 'Opinions of the Press' (3p), frontis (b&w), 12 b&w plates. Six volumes bound in red cloth, stamped in black on front board (portrait of Maori) and spine, with gilt lettering to spine also. All vols spines discoloured, corners bumped, pages some FX/browning. Vol I slight damp marks to covers, closed tear to folding genealogical table at rear of book, dust soiling around this. Vol III inscribed 'Mrs Creed from John White', covers marked, EPs somewhat worn. Vol IV some water damage to boards (not affecting text). Vol V POS of J White of Auckland (not author). Vol VI stamp of bookseller A F McDonnell of Auckland, first few pages of English and Maori sections marked up in black ink (for the purposes of checking translation?). Together with 'Illustrations Prepared for White's Ancient History of the Maori', 1st, (Govt Print), 1891. 124 b&w plates. 6030. Blue paper covers faded with creasing/edge wear, staples rusted considerably, pages FX/browning. Altogether a handsome set, complete as published. Uncommon, especially with authorial inscription. G to G+. [7].
Realised: $4,300 September 2009

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