History of the Portuguese, During the Reign of Emmanuel: containing all their discoveries, from the coast of Africk to the farthest parts of China;

their battles by sea and land, their sieges, and other memorable exploits: with a description of those countries, and a particular account of the religion, government, and customs of the natives; including also, their discovery of the Brazils, and their wars with the Moors. London : A. Millar, 1752. First English-language edition. Two volumes, octavo, contemporary full calf, boards double-ruled in gilt, spines in compartments with gilt decoration and contrasting title label lettered in gilt; both volumes recased, pastedowns and endpapers replaced; pp. [4], 376; [2], 388; contents exceptionally clean and fresh throughout, a very attractive set.

The first English translation, made by James Gibbs, of Osorio’s chronicle of the reign of King Manuel I of Portugal (1495-1521), which first appeared in a Latin edition in 1571. The elegantly written work is nothing less than a major history of the Golden Age of Portuguese exploration, containing accounts of the voyages, discoveries and exploits of Vasco da Gama, Magellan, Cabral, Almeida, and Albuquerque, among other navigators.

Sabin, 57807; Borba de Moraes, 2:121