first Singalese grammar in any European language

A well-preserved copy of the first Singalese grammar in any European language. Contains Sinhala script printed with movable type.

Rasmus Rask (1787-1832) was a highly important linguist who made breakthrough contributions to the study of the languages of Persia, India, and Ceylon. With this work he is credited for identifying the relationship between Sinhalese and Sanskrit, as well as the differences between it and Tamil. Rask is now considered 'one of the founders of the modern science of language'.

First edition; 8vo (20 x 13 cm); Danish and Sinhala text, publisher's original limp marbled wrappers, printed paper title label to upper cover, extremities a little chipped, discreet ownership stamp to title, a very good copy; [ii], 16pp.

PMM 266.