Lot 2038: DUFLOT DE MOFRAS, EUGENE. 1810-1884.

Exploration du territoire de l'Oregon, des Californies et de la Mer Vermeille exécutée pendant les années 1840, 1841 et 1842. Paris: Arthus Bertrand, 1844. 8vo (223 x 140 mm). 2 volumes only. [XVI], 524; [IV], 514 pp. 8 engraved plates. Late 19th century purple morocco over marbled boards, spine lettered in gilt. Without atlas volume, some faint foxing mainly to preliminary and final leaves, spines somewhat sunned, stray rubbing, light shelfwear. Provenance: Bibliothèque du Citoyen Napoléon-Bonaparte (stamp to half-titles). FIRST EDITION. The author, who was the French ambassador to Mexico, was investigating the region in order to advise his government on whether or not to become involved in the conflict over Oregon between the United States and Great Britain. The work covers the entire Northwestern coast including Alaska but also Hawaii "comme appendice naturel de la Californie" (as a natural extension of California). Cowan I, p 74. Cowan II, p 186; Forbes 1461; Hill, p 87; Holliday 319; Howes D542; Lada-Mocarski 120; Phillips Atlases 1457; Streeter sale 3323; Zamorano Eighty 30.