Narrative of Voyages to Explore the Shores of Africa, Arabia, and Madagascar;

£1,500 · Offered by Shapero Rare Books

Scarce work recounting an early survey of the coast of the Arabian Peninsula. Owen's orders were to commence his first survey at the mouth of the Keiskamma to Delagoa Bay and in a second survey travel between Delagoa Bay along the coasts of Sofala and Mozambique. His brief was to gather information regarding the numbers and character of the natives, their occupations, modes of subsistence etc., the nature of the soil and production. In the second instance he should investigate the navigability of the rivers, the Imhamban, the Sofala and Quilimaney to receive particular attention. Owen accurately charted the Arabian Peninsula. He also delineated both the Atlantic and Pacific coastlines of South Africa with great accuracy and also began the scientific exploration of the Zambezi. Owen's flagship, Leven, in company with the brig Barracouta, eventually returned to Cape Town and remained in port until June 1823. In January 1824 Owen once again sailed, continuing with his tasking to survey the coast of Oman. He began at Ras al Hadd, continuing to Masirah Island and along the coast to Ras Mirba. First edition; 2 vols in 1, 8vo (22.5 x 14.5 cm); 5 lithograph plates including frontispieces, 4 folding maps and charts, 6 in-text vignettes, errata slip, plates a little spotted, armorial bookplate to pastedown; contemporary half calf, cloth boards, spine gilt in five compartments with gilt red morocco lettering piece, marbled edges, some discreet restoration to spine, a very good copy; xxi

• Binding: Hardcover

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