a pioneering work

Scarce. Two issues of this work were made in 1814. This second issue has Chinese characters on title and a 2-page errata, it also has nine extra leaves.

Marshman's grammar was produced by the Danish Mission colony of Serampore as part of the ever increasing flow of information on the Chinese language. Marshman's book is a pioneering work based on the idea that correct Chinese grammar should be sought in the great classics such as Confucius, rather than in colloquial usage.

First edition, second issue (with Chinese characters on title, errata & 9 extra leaves), 4to, [ii], xvi, viii, ii, 2-page errata, 566, 56 pp., lacks half-title, occasional toning and light spotting, old illegible markings to title and verso, modern half calf gilt, a good copy.

Cordier, Sinica, 1661; Diehl 85; Lowendahl 775; Lust 1020.