This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/28/2021
[PERRY, Matthew C.]. –– HAWKS, Francis L. Narrative of the Expedition of an American Squadron to the China Seas and Japan, Performed in the Years 1852, 1853, 1854… Washington: A. O. P. Nicholson, 1856. 3 volumes, 4to. 135 plates (most tinted, some hand–colored or folded) INCLUDING THE SUPPRESSED NUDE BATHING PLATE “Public Bath at Simoda” in Volume I, p, 48, 22 maps (18 folding), 352 full–page star charts in Volume III, numerous in–text vignettes and facsimiles throughout. Modern half calf over marbled boards, raised bands, black leather lettering–pieces gilt, all edges marbled, marbled endpapers. FIRST EDITION of Commodore Perry’s famous expedition to establish diplomatic relations with Japan, ultimately resulting in the signing of the landmark treaty that finally opened Japan to the West; a result that “contributed to the collapse of the feudal regime and to the modernization of Japan” (Hill). A BRIGHT SET WITH THE SUPPRESSED NUDE BATHING SCENE. Hill 1332; Reese, Stamped with a National Character 74; Sabin 30958.