1776 [CHILE] ERCILLA Y ZÚÑIGA ALONSO DE, LA ARAUCANA (...).

25. ERCILLA Y ZÚÑIGA ALONSO DE, LA ARAUCANA (...).

Madrid 1776, Antonio de Sancha, LVI p. +298 pp.

The most important work of Author Alonso de Ercilla y Zúñiga (1533-1594), Spanish writer, poet, soldier and page of the later King Philip II.The epic poem La Araucana, describing events during the war with the Araucanians. The poem consisted of three parts. The subject of this sale is volume one of the two sets. It was written in Chile and published in 1569.Its content was based on historical events, i.e. the battles between the Spaniards and the Araucanians, on the territory of present-day Chile. The work is considered a classic of Renaissance epic written in Spanish and the first important national work of Chile, describing the country and portraying the Araucanians in a positive light. The text is beautifully illustrated with a large-format fold-out map of the Chilean battle area. In addition, a frontispiece engraving with a portrait of the Author and 1 engraving as an illustration to the text.

Early 19th century binding, full edge-gilt leather in poor condition with rubbing and loss; spine embossed and gilt with geometric and floral designs and title, but also with rubbing; gilt ex-libris with owner's name on front cover; interior in average condition; significant water stains on the frontispiece and engraving, but dry; overall average condition.