Incidents Of Travel In Central America, Chiapas, And Yucatan by STEPHENS, John L[loyd] [1805-1852]

New York: Harper & Brothers, 1841. First Edition. Stephens was appointed to a confidential American diplomatic mission to Central America in 1839. This popular travelogue describes events connected with the mission and Stephens' extensive travels in Guatemala, Costa Rica, and the Yucatan. Included are detailed descriptions and illustrations, after drawings made on the spot by English artist and architect, Frederick Catherwood, of dozens of ruins of the Mayan civilization, the most extensive, important, and accurate information hitherto published on ancient Mesoamerica. Sabin 91297. Smith S146. 2 Volumes. 8vo. pp. viii, [1 leaf], [9]-424; vii, [1 leaf], [7]-474. 68 engraved plates (incl. 2 frontis., 2 double-page) & numerous text illus. folding engraved map. original blind & gilt-stamped cloth, rebacked with spines mounted (edges frayed, dampstain to upper portion of leaves & plates in first gatherings of Vol. I)