MEMOIRS OF ****; Commonly known by the name of ... A Reputed Native of Formosa. Written by himself in order to be published after his death containing an account of his education, travels, advenutres, connections, literary productions, and pretended conversion from Heathism to Christianity; which last proved the Occasion of his being brought over into this Kingdom, and passing for a Proselyte, and a Member of the Church of England.
Dublin: P. Wilson et. al. 1765. First Irish Edition. 8vo, pp. [ii],[ii], 234. Bound in contemporary mottled calf, couple of pieces of leather missing from the front and rear board, wear along spine, a very good tight copy. CBEL II, 135. Item #29480
Psalmanzar was an elaborate fake. Born in southern France, he, at an early age, developed a persona of a native of Formosa, speaking in an imaginery laguage and using this device made his way in the social, religious and intellectual circes of the time. With the help of his chaplain, William Innes, Psalmanzar translated the Church of England catechism into his imaginery language and worked an invitation to Christ Church, Oxford. In his later life he lived in Ironmonger Row and drank ale with Dr. Johnson. The autobiography outlines some of the ruse. See DNB (vol 46) for an extended write-up.
Price: $600.00