Old Nick - La Chine ouverte - 1845

Old Nick. The Open China. Paris, H. Fournier, 1845, 396 pp.

A volume in octavo (250x160 mm), half morocco with corners, smooth decorated spine (binding of the period). Wear and rubbing on the boards and spine. Light foxing.

Original edition richly illustrated with engravings in- and out-of-text

Travel narrative describing the discovery and exploration of China by Western travellers at a time when the country began to open more to foreigners. The author recounts the cities, ports and landscapes encountered, while providing observations on Chinese customs, society and political organization. The narrative also touches on the commercial relations between China and Europe and mentions the changes brought about by the increasing arrival of foreigners.