Polynesian Researches…
Polynesian Researches, during a residence of nearly six years in the South Sea Islands; including descriptions of the natural history and scenery of the islands - with remarks on the history, mythology, traditions, government, arts, manners, and customs of the inhabitants.
London: Fisher, Son, and Jackson, 1830.
Two volumes, octavo, with portrait of Pomare, two folding maps, seven engraved plates and 16 wood engravings; uncut in the original blue-grey boards.
Redeeming the character of the island missionaries
Second edition: one of the most important works on the history and ethnology of the Society Islands, by one of the most perceptive of the missionary travellers in the Pacific. This is 'une des sources les plus abondantes pour l'histoire de l'ancien Tahiti…' (O'Reilly-Reitman). The work begins with Ellis' account of his voyage in which he visited Rio de Janeiro, Sydney, and New Zealand. He was in Tahiti from 1816 to 1822, during which time very little seems to have escaped his notice. A very popular and influential work, its publication 'went far to redeem the character of missionaries in the eyes of those who had thought of them as ignorant and narrow minded men' (Hill).
Second edition: one of the most important works on the history and ethnology of the Society Islands, by one of the most perceptive of the missionary travellers in the Pacific. This is 'une des sources les plus abondantes pour l'histoire de l'ancien Tahiti…' (O'Reilly-Reitman). The work begins with Ellis' account of his voyage in which he visited Rio de Janeiro, Sydney, and New Zealand. He was in Tahiti from 1816 to 1822, during which time very little seems to have escaped his notice. A very popular and influential work, its publication 'went far to redeem the character of missionaries in the eyes of those who had thought of them as ignorant and narrow minded men' (Hill).
After his time in Tahiti Ellis went on to Hawaii; he published his works on both islands once he was back in England.
Hill, 1234; Judd, 61 (later edition); not in Ferguson; O'Reilly-Reitman, 7556.
Condition Report: Frontispiece and title of the second volume a little stained, otherwise in fine condition internally; uncut in the original blue-grey boards, plain linen spines (numbered by hand) worn, small splits to joints.