Author

PERRY, Matthew C; Francis L. Hawks.

Title

Narrative of the Expedition of an American Squadron to the China Seas and Japan;
performed in the years 1852, 1853, and 1854, under the command of Commodore M.C.Perry, United States Navy, by order of the Government of the United States. Compiled from the original notes and journals of Commodore Perry and his officers, at his request, and under his supervision.

Published, Date

United States Congress, Washington1856.

Description

First edition. Vol. 1 (of 3) comprising the entire narrative, 4to., 90 lithographs (several coloured), including suppressed bathing plate, maps, and numerous wood engravings, autograph letter from Perry to Charles Stuart laid in, internally a nice clean set, later brown cloth preserving most of earlier [original?] paper label.

Note

A cornerstone of any collection of books about Japan. Perry was in charge of the expedition to establish diplomatic relations with Japan and it was partly as a result of his mission that Japan embarked upon its modernisation programme. This copy with a letter from Perry to Charles Stuart regarding the recipient's recent book, The Naval Dry Docks of the United States.

References

Cordier Japonica, 513; Hill, Pacific Voyages pp. 230-31; Sabin 30958.

Stock Number

74431