Tandy´s A Description of the Burmese Empire 1833

BURMA. SANGERMANO, (V.). A Description of the Burmese Empire, compiled chiefly from native Documents by the rev. father Sangermano, and translated from his Ms. by William Tandy... Rome (printed for the Oriental Translation Fund of Great Britain and Ireland) 1833.

4:o (299x225 mm.). (3), iv-vi, (2), (1)-224 pp.
Near contemporary green cloth, somewhat worn, spine with small damages at head and foot, somewhat damaged spine label, nearly uncut. Some foxing. Library blind-stamp on title: "Manchester Grammar School".

First edition of the English translation. Father Sangermani was a Barnabite missionary in Rangoon 1783-1808. The present work contains translations of authentic Burmese writings, including a history of the kingdom Maharazaven, and classical writings concerning the superstitions, Astrology, religion, and other aspects of the native culture. It also includes descriptions on governement, revenue and taxes, military, literature, science, natural resources, currency, trade and commerce.
From the library of Swedish antiquarian bookdealer Björn Löwendahl (1941-2013).