This is an auction for SKETCHES IN NEW ZEALAND by R A Oliver.

The original dates from 1849; this facsimile edition 1977.

This is copy #155 in the edition of 500 copies.

"R A Oliver (1811-1889) commanded the HMS Fly on survey voyages of New Zealand and Pacific waters between 1847 and 1851. It was during these voyages that he observed the Maori people first-hand and recorded the New Zealand and New Caledonian landscape for this publication. His personal observations of New Zealand during 1848-49 are also recorded in a manuscript journal, in the collection of the National Maritime Museum, London. The suite of views and portraits prepared by Oliver for the publication include Chief Te Rangihaeta, A Korero, A Tangi (at Motoneka), the Falls of Kirikiri, a Stranger's House (Houraki Pah), Half Castes of Pomare's Pah (Bay of Islands), Puebo (New Caledonia) and portraits of two boys Harry Bluff and Johnny, who were 'half-castes, probably the children of whalers'. The published plates are only a small part of Oliver's surviving corpus of original watercolours of New Zealand scenes and portraits. A tradition that further publication was not undertaken because of his dissatisfaction with the quality of the reproduction has to be viewed in conjunction with the tenor of the slip in the Hocken copy stating that 'in consequence of the subscription list for Captain Oliver's work on New Zealand being not yet sufficiently filled with names, it is considered expedient to postpone bringing out more parts...until the number of names should be increased'."

Ultra-large (*) format hardback 1977.

• 45.5cms x 59cms

Near new condition.

The cost of shipping is:

• North Island - $26.95
• North Island tracked mail - $29.95
• South Island - $36.95
• South Island tracked mail - $39.95

There is of course no charge for shipping if you collect this book from my shop in Palmerston North following the auction.

Payment within seven days, please.