Published by Manuel memijje for Anastacio Gonzaga, [Manila], 1819
Seller: HS Rare Books, ILAB, New York, NY, U.S.A.
First Edition
Wonderful description of the Philippines, published in Manila Aragon, Ildefonso de. Descripción Geográfica y Topográfica de la Ysla de Luzon o Nueva Castilla con las Particulares de las Diez y Seis Provincias o Partidos que comprehende [with] Provincia de Tondo [with] Provincia de Bulacan [with] Provincia de la Pampanga [with] Provincia de Pangasinan. 1819-21. [Manila]. Manuel Memije for Anastacio Gonzaga. 4to, (193 x 137 mm). [2], 14; 50, [10] (one leaf of glossary bound out of order); 21, [1]; 38; 25 pages; lacking the five maps and plans that correspond to this edition, together, 5 parts in one volume. 20th century red morocco gilt; text contents toned with light dampstaining, unobtrusive repairs on verso of the views. First edition of this rare Philippine publications, each published independently (as the bibliography indicates, each of which is dealt with separately) however meant to be together, ostensibly a survey of several provinces, it deals with the provinces of Luzon, Tondo, Bulacan, Pampanga and Pangasinan, written by the commander of the Royal Corps of Military Engineers, Ildefonso de Aragon, who is regarded by Retana as the father of Philippine statistics and scientific topography. These imprints relate to the geography, commerce, and general history of each of these provinces of the Philippines. Each part, as stated above, was illustrated with a map or view of the region, none of which are present in this -aside from this fault- beautiful copy. Retana/Aparato 514, 515, 516, 518, 525; Palau 14463, 14464, 14466, 14467, 14468.