HECTOR, James

Transactions and Proceedings of the New Zealand Institute, 1868-1872.

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James Hughes, 1869- Wellington, 1873. Five volumes, quarto, illustrations and plates, many folding and in colour; a handsome set finely bound in scarlet morocco, gilt, gilt arms on upper boards, all edges gilt. A finely-bound set of the Transactions of the New Zealand Institute: a comprehensive record of the scientific endeavours undertaken in New Zealand in the years 1868-1872.

The New Zealand Institute, now known as the Royal Society of New Zealand, evolved from the unification of five regional scientific organisations from Auckland, Wellington, Canterbury, Otago and Westland. Established under an Act of Parliament with a government grant of £500, the Institute provided a coordinated means of scientific communication through its publication of the Transactions. The editor was James Hector, a pioneer explorer, geologist and natural scientist, who held the post of manager of the institute for thirty-five years following its inception.

This collection represents the first five years of the institute's proceedings. The scope of the subjects covered is staggering and reflects the vigour and richness of scientific and intellectual life in this small community at the time, which was especially enriched by the participation in rigorous scientific debates by enthusiastic and learned amateurs as well as academics and professionals. As well as every possible scientific field, the Transactions are particularly rich in information about the Maori people.

This is a most attractive set of this important publication.
Bagnall, 4063.

• AUD 3,600.00 > otras divisas
• nº de pedido: 503_601

• librero: Hordern House (AUSTRALIA)