Marriage Rites, Customs, and Ceremonies of all Nations of the Universe

The first edition of Lady Augusta Hamilton's fascinating tour of the world through marriage ceremonies. First edition. Rebacked, with the original paper covered boards and later blue cloth to the spine. Renewed endpapers. Engraved frontispiece. Here, Lady Augusta Hamilton examines marriage customs all across the globe and their meaning for the legal status of women. As the wife of Sir James John Hamilton, Baronet (1802-1876), Lady Augusta Hamilton may well have travelled with her husband during his active military service. Beginning in Turkey and ending in the South Sea Islands, Hamilton's expressive and often sharp commentaries conclude that English women are treated favourably by their native marriage customs. Rebacked, with the original paper covered boards and later blue cloth to the spine. Externally, with notable rubbing, marks and damp stains to the original boards. Mild rubbing and bumping to the cloth. Internally, firmly bound. Pages are generally bright and clean, with the odd spots and toning, particularly to the first and last few pages. A few small tide marks to the margins of the frontispiece. Contemporary ink inscription to the front endpaper. Good.…