Maori Lore - The Traditions Of The Maori People With The More Important of Their Legends

By James Izett, compiled for the Government of New Zealand

Published by John Mackay, Government Printer, Wellington, New Zealand, 1904

The very rare First Edition

And in particular quite rare in this excellent condition. 

Profusely illustrated with full page photographs of Maoris in traditional costume. A very important work on the Maoris and their traditions including the Legends of Hawa iki (27 legends) and the Legends of Aotea-roa (12 legends).

An excerpt: An expression of thanks is due to Mr. John Jury, of Greytown, an assiduous and careful collector of Maori traditions, who has been good enough to contribute from his stock four legends never before published. The legends of Tamatea and Rahui are not without interest, whilst in another work shortly to be published to the legends of Kau-whanga and Rua-peka-peka a consider able degree of historical importance may be found to attach.

From the voluminous stock of Maori pictures in the possession of Mr. Arthur Isles, photographer, of Rotorua, the portraits of Maori chiefs and maidens have been selected. The other illustrations furnished have been kindly supplied through the courtesy of Mr. John Mackay.

In 451 pages in red cloth hardcover with titles in gilt to the spine and blindstamped to the cover. There is general light wear to the covers. There is some sunning to the spine and mark to the spine. There is no foxing. There are no previous owners' names or inscriptions.  All plates are bright, fresh and crisp - pristine. There are no missing, loose, damaged, stained, or creased pages. The binding and block are solid. It is complete and original. 

Measures 14.5cm x 21.5cm x 3cm.

A very rare and important first edition.