Raritys peculiar to the chief countrys in Europe, 1787 Jun 5.

1 v. (120 p.) ; 22 x 17 cm.

English

In English.

For information on the source of acquisition, consult the appropriate curator.

Manuscript, in a single hand, of descriptions of various countries. The manuscript takes note of landmarks, architecture, historical anecdotes, and religious practices in Europe, Africa, Asia, and America. In his description of Italy, he includes a copy of "the Roman Creed of Pope Pius 4th, beginning with that part, which follows at the end of our Nicene Creed." The "Raritys of Asia" mentions "that prodigious wall, dividing Tartary, from China," and "the Raritys of Africa" include crocodiles "in the River of Nile...A compleat skeleton of this great animall, 4 3/4 yards long is at Gresham Colledge." Twelve pages are devoted to a description of the rarities of North and South America, including geographical formations, a "certain fruit (call'd the Butternut)," the monkfish, and the "river Connecticus." The manuscript also contains a chart listing "the Commoditys peculiar to each country in the World" as well as essays on reason, the character of the envious man, pleasure, and "the abuse of words," and concludes with a satirical poem titled "The Medicine" which concerns Miss Molly, a notable scold.

August 08, 2005

Patrick Gordon, Raritys Peculiar to the Chief Countrys in Europe. James Marshall and Marie-Louise Osborn Collection, Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Yale University.

Patrick Gordon, Raritys Peculiar to the Chief Countrys in Europe. James Marshall and Marie-Louise Osborn Collection, Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Yale University.