Fernandez [de Palencia], Diego | First edition of an early history of Peru, signed by the author

Fernandez [de Palencia], Diego

Primera, y segunda parte de la Historia del Peru. Seville: Hernando Diaz, en la calle de la Sierpe, 1571

2 vols. bound in 1, folio (285 x 190 mm). Signed by the author "Diego Fernandez" in ink on first title page and final leaf, woodcut arms of Spain on each title-page, woodcut initials and endpieces; title page slightly shaved affecting signature flourishes, dampstaining, some browning, light foxing throughout, small hole to p. 101 costing two letters, small tear to *3r in volume two. Richly gilt burgundy morocco with borders in blind, spine in five compartments and raised bands with repeat gilt decoration, text-block edges gilt. Red cloth folding case with marbled sides; some wear to folding case.

First edition of an early source on the history of Peru signed by the author.

"No history of that period compares with it in the copiousness of its details," writes William Prescott of the present work in The History of the Conquest of Peru.

Arriving to Peru as a young soldier, Diego Fernandez de Palencia served under the conquistador Alonso de Alvarado, Marques de Cañete who bestowed upon him the the role of "chronicler of Peru"—granting him access to letters, diaries, and other official documents. Towards the end of his life, Fernandez here recounted the history and events of early Peru from 1542 to 1560, including early colonial murders, conflicts, conspiracies, and rebellions.

REFERENCES

Palau 89549; Sabin 24133; Alden & Landis 571/10; BL Pre-1601 Spanish STC p. 76; Catálogo colectivo F214; Medina, BHA 214; Escudero 649-50; Gallardo 2182; JCB I, i, 244-5; JFB F52; HSA p. 200; Salvá 3317; Heredia 3426; Simón Díaz X, nº 512; Cf. Griffin, Latin America: A Guide to the Historical Literature 2960; Prescott, Conquest of Peru [1865] II, 474

PROVENANCE

The New York Historical Society (sticker to folding case)