VANCOUVER (George). Voyage of discovery to the North Pacific Ocean and around the world. Translated from the English by P.F. Henry. Paris, Didot Jeune, an X; 6 volumes (including an atlas) in-8 (195 x 120 mm), shagreened calf, smooth spines decorated with gilded latticework and irons, gilded garland on the covers (Period bindings). ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT VOYAGES OF EXPLORATION OF THE PACIFIC AND THE NORTH-WEST COASTS OF AMERICA. Second French edition illustrated with 17 plates and 9 maps, 8 of which are fold-outs. Vancouver, who had accompanied Cook on his second and third voyages, was commissioned to investigate the existence of a passage between the Pacific and the Great Lakes. He concluded that it did not exist, but he carried out the most important exploration of the west coast of America and Canada, considerably improving cartography and bringing back new information on New Zealand, Tahiti and Hawaii - which complemented Cook's discoveries. The engravings of Mission San Carlos and the Presidio of Monterey are among the earliest views of California. A VERY FINE COPY, ELEGANTLY BOUND.