A Description Of The Burmese Empire, Compiled Chiefly From Native DocumentsAnd TranslatedBy William Tandy.

folio. pp. vi, [2], 224. A fine copy in modern quarter oasis morocco, all edges gilt (3 library blindstamps, rubberstamp on verso of title). First Edition of the English Translation. Father Sangermano was a Barnabite missionary at Rangoon from 1783 to 1808. There he completed the building of the church of St. John and constructed a successful missionary college, which he superintended until his departure. Sangermano was greatly esteemed by the natives of Rangoon as well as by visiting foreigners, particularly the English. The present work contains translations of authentic Burmese writings including a cosmography, a history of the kingdom (Maharazaven), and classical writings concerning the superstitions, astrology, religion, and other aspects of native culture. Also included are chapters on government, revenue and taxes, army and military discipline, literature and science, natural resources, and currency and commerce.