What Does “Original Condition” Mean?

Collectors and historians often ask what “original condition” truly means when it comes to rare books. The answer varies widely depending on the time, place, and method of publication. One particularly striking example is Canon Guillaume Baston’s four-volume fantasy about Omai, the famous Tahitian who traveled to England on Captain Cook’s second voyage.

Baston’s work, titled Narrations d’Omaï, Insulaire de la Mer du Sud, Ami et Companion de Voyage du Capitaine Cook, was published in Rouen in 1790. Before being bound to a buyer’s taste, it was originally issued in simple paper wrappers, with printed paper labels on the spines.

A Unique Survivor in Rare Book Collecting

Unlike modern books, 18th-century publications were often sold unbound, allowing purchasers to commission bindings that suited their preferences. As a result, very few copies survive in their original issued state.

This particular unpressed copy is almost twice as thick as other versions that were later bound and trimmed. The edges remain uncut, sometimes referred to as deckle edges, giving insight into how the book appeared when first released.

Omai: The Pacific Islander Who Captivated Europe

Omai was a Polynesian from Raiatea, brought to England in 1774 aboard HMS Adventure. He became a sensation at court, meeting King George III and mingling with London’s elite. His life inspired numerous books, artworks, and theatrical productions, making Baston’s 1790 fantasy an intriguing piece of literary history.

Preserving the Past

Books like this, in their original condition, are highly prized by collectors, as they offer an unaltered glimpse into historical publishing practices. This particular example stands as a rare survivor, providing an authentic connection to the world of 18th-century exploration and literature.

For more insights into rare books and historical collectibles, visit www.FintaraGallery.com.