133 - Joseph-François LAFITAU. History of the Discoveries and Conquests of the Portuguese in the New World… Paris, Saugrain and Coignard, 1733. 2 volumes, in-4, marbled sheepskin, spine with 5 raised bands (contemporary binding).

Joseph-François LAFITAU. History of the Discoveries and Conquests of the Portuguese in the New World… Paris, Saugrain and Coignard, 1733. 2 volumes, in-4, marbled sheepskin, spine with 5 raised bands (contemporary binding). Brunet, III-745 /// I. (3f.)-XXIV-616-(24f.) / II. (1f.)-691 (numbered 693)-(44f.) First edition. A missionary born in Bordeaux in 1670, Joseph-François Lafitau was sent on a mission to Canada. It seems this country did not particularly fascinate him, since he authored three works: one on the Tartarian ging-sang plant, another on the customs of the natives, and a third on the Portuguese conquests. A frontispiece by Scottin, a vignette by the same artist, an unsigned initial letter, 13 plates including one fold-out and one fold-out map. Spine faded, hinges rubbed, and leather binding restored; a corner is missing from one leaf.