LA LOUBERE, Simon de (1642-1729). A New Historical Relation of the Kingdom of Siam… Envoy Extraordinary from the French King, to the King of Siam, in the Years 1687 and 1688. Wherein a Full and Curious Account is Given of the Chinese Way of Arithmatick and Mathematick Learning. London: printed by F.L. for Tho. Horne; Francis Saunders; and Tho. Bennet, 1693.
2 volumes in one, small folio. Title in red and black, 2 engraved maps, 9 engraved plates. (Occasional toning.) Contemporary paneled calf, 6 compartments with 5 raised bands, morocco lettering-piece gilt in second compartment (recased). Provenance: Fraser of Achnagairn (armorial bookplate).
FIRST EDITION of La Loubere’s account of his voyage to modern-day Thailand. Significant for its publication of the “Siamese method” of constructing magic squares and being one of the earliest accounts of a parachute. This work also describes chess, smoking, the Siamese alphabet, astronomy, etc., and includes a description of the Cape of Good Hope and its inhabitants. Cordier 723; Satow 58; Wing L-201.
