Ying-yai Sheng-lan; the Overall Survey of the Ocean's Shores, 133
London: Published for the Hakluya Society By Cambridge University Press, 1970. Octavo. Item #031638
xix, 393 pages, folding map in rear pocket. Translated from the Chinese text edited by Feng Ch'eng-Chin with introduction, notes and appendices by J.V.G. Mills. Ma Huan, a Chinese Muslim, sailed on the 4th, 6th, and 7th voyages of the eunuch admiral Cheng Ho in the early 15th century as an official interpreter, visiting 20 countries including customs of the peoples of the Persian Gulf. J.V.G. Mills who has not only translated the work but has provided an in depth study of maritime Asia in the period between Marco Polo and Vasco da Gama. It is the first work to describe the dimensions of the ships and the numbers of officers, troops, and crew in the first expedition. A fine copy bound in black cloth centrally stamped in gilt, spine lettered and ruled in gilt, in a very good, unclipped dust jacket. with a bit of staining to rear panel. Very scarce.
Price: $325.00