Veitia Linage, José de | A detailed account of Spanish trade practices in the West Indies

Veitia Linage, José de

Norte de La Contratacion de Las Indias Occidentales. Seville: Juan Francisco de Blas, 1672

2 parts in 1 vol., folio (292 x 206 mm). Engraved additional title by Marcos de Orozco dated 1671, title within typographical border, woodcut initials and tailpieces, text in two columns, with index and colophon leaf at end; occasional very faint marginal dampstaining, a few stray stains. Contemporary limp vellum with traces of foreties, manuscript title to spine; soiled, endleaves split, upper joint starting.

First edition of this account of the governance of the Spanish colonies in America, with particular attention to commerce and navigation.

The work's description of Spanish trade practices in the West Indies details the organization of the courts, administration of the Armada, the work of missionaries, and the slave trade. Its author, José de Veitia Linage, sought to thoroughly examine the complexities of the legislation, ordinance, and royal edicts that governed the Casa de Contratación.

REFERENCES

European Americana 672/234; Medina BHA III: 1544; Palau 356806; Sabin 98780