First and only edition of a rare work on Calcutta and Hinduism written by a Christian missionary. The author was particularly interested in the teachings of the Brahmo Samaj, an important monotheïstic reformist movement that started in Calcutta in 1828. Members of this movement and Christians regularly clashed, leading to heated debates. However, Reverend Cesary, who is otherwise unknown, tries to change misconceptions about the Brahmo Samaj and find common ground.
The work is divided in 5 parts, which explain Hinduism and Brahmo doctrines, describe a journey from the author from Calcutta to Bombay, offer a charming description of 19th-century Calcutta and explain daily living of Hindus. Together, the different parts offer a fine portrayal of the late 19th-century socio-religious landscape of North India in general and Calcutta in particular.
With the stamp of the Kapuzinerkloster Falkenburg on the first flyleaf. The edges and corners of the boards are slightly scuffed and the head and tail of the spine are bumped. The flyleaves are slightly foxed, all leaves are creased near the spine and the work is slightly browned throughout. Otherwise in good condition.