PBA Galleries

vii, [1], 624 pp. 11 folding maps plus many engraved and woodcut plates. 24.6x16 cm (9¾x6½"), period half calf and marbled boards, spine gilt, gilt-lettered morocco label, all edges marbled. One volume edition.

Detailed and profusely illustrated account of Perry's expedition to open Japan to the West; "In January 1852 [Perry] was selected to undertake the most important diplomatic mission ever entrusted to an American naval officer, the negotiation of a treaty with Japan, a country at this time sealed against intercourse with the Occidental powers" (DAB). By March 31, 1854, the treaty granting the U.S. trading rights had been signed by the Japanese. Upon his return to the U.S., his chief duty for the following year was to compile his reports of the expedition, aided by Francis Hawks. Several ownership signatures of James A. Hawley of Dixon, Illinois.