The Life of Captain James Cook. By Andrew Kippis. London: for G. Nichol and G. G. J. and J. Robinson, 1788, 4to.
THE VERY RARE FIRST EDITION OF THE FIRST FULL-SCALE BIOGRAPHY OF CAPTAIN JAMES COOK, PRINTED IN 1788.
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The very rare and important first edition of the first full-scale biography of Captain Cook. Kippis, an eminent Anglican clergyman and renowned biographer of his time, wrote this inaugural comprehensive biography of Captain Cook, marking a pivotal literary moment - a necessary book in the collection of any travel collector. Delving into Cook's illustrious yet enigmatic life, Kippis chooses to focus primarily on the navigator's monumental public endeavours, rather than delving extensively into his personal sphere. He justifies this approach by asserting that Cook's private life, though scarce in this narrative, pales in comparison to the magnitude and impact of his significant public exploits.
The biography's opening chapter provides a glimpse into Cook's early career and his notable surveys of Newfoundland and Labrador. However, the spotlight falls predominantly on the detailed exploration of his three epic voyages throughout the remaining pages. Notably, Kippis includes a compelling addition - a copy of the "Safe Passage" letter from Benjamin Franklin. This letter, accompanied by Kippis' commentary, sheds light on Congress' strategic decision to reverse its terms, fearing the adverse consequences for the United States if the English were to gain comprehensive knowledge of the opposite coast of America through Cook's explorations.
Beyond the exploration narratives, Kippis delves into Cook's earlier experiences, such as his involvement aboard the Mercury during the siege of Quebec, and his noteworthy surveys of Newfoundland and Labrador. The poignant narrative of Cook's death, predominantly sourced from Samwell's account, also finds its place within Kippis' biography.
Although Kippis appears somewhat cognizant of the enduring implications of European interactions with Pacific communities, his portrayal predominantly champions Cook's humanitarian, cultural, and intellectual pursuits during his global circumnavigation. Lynne Withey, in her analysis of European exploration in the Pacific, highlights Kippis' biography as a seminal work. She underscores its significant role in justifying European involvement in Pacific islands for years subsequent to Cook's death.
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A similar example of this rare book recently sold at Christie's Fine Printed Books and Manuscripts Including Americana sale on the 25th of October 2019 lot 109 for $2,500 (USD).
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Size: 237 x 297 mm (approx.)
Condition:
[xvi, pp.[1]-527, i (advertisements)]
A beautifully produced book with excellent typography, wide margins, and high quality paper. Collated as complete. Half morocco leather with raised bands to the spine with a blindstamped design between the bands and gilt title. Spine a little rubbed with minor loss but generally very good. Minor rubbing across the joints but without fault with both boards securely attached. The binding is firm and secure without shelf lean. Boards near fine. Very minor shelf wear. Repair to b4, not intrusive. A bit of dampstaining throughout and light foxing towards endpapers with the majority of the text block being clean and bright. No text loss, all text fully legible throughout. Verso of frontispiece heavily toned with a small tear at leaf edge. Contemporary endpapers.
Also included is a detached foldout View of Karakakooa Bay in Owhyhee, where Captain Cook was Killed, engraved by John Webber who accompanied Cook on his third Pacific expedition. Perhaps this engraving originates from the first edition of this voyage? This engraving has tape affixed to the verso border with a few creases. It is early printed, circa the 1770s.
[Sabin 37954; Hill 934-5; Forbes 149; Howes K179].
