Chinese Novels in English
DAVIS, JOHN FRANCIS. Chinese Novels, Translated from the Originals; to which are added Proverbs and Moral Maxims
London: John Murray, 1822
Full calf gilt, ca. 1900, edges marbled. Upper joint slightly tender. A very handsome copy.
FIRST EDITION. This volume contains introductory “Observations on the Language and Literature of China” followed by “The Shadow in the Water,” “The Twin Sisters,” “The Three Dedicated Chambers,” and a selection of Chinese proverbs.
In 1813, Davis was appointed writer at the East India Company’s factory in Canton (now Guangzhou). His knowledge of the Chinese language, demonstrated with his translation of “The Three Dedicated Chambers” (“San-Yu-Low”) led to his appointment to accompany Lord Amherst on his embassy to Peking in 1816. On the mission’s return Davis returned to his duties at the Canton factory, and was promoted to president in 1832. Davis served as governor and commander-in-chief of Hong Kong from 1844 to 1848.
Provenance: Sir Edward Strachey, with bookplate.
$900