The scarce first edition of this important study of the Khoikhoi. 154pp. plus 80pp. adverts in the rear dated 21.9.81. All edges uncut and one page unopened. In the original brown cloth with gilt lettering on the spine. Errata slip tipped in before the title page. Inscribed presentation copy from the author "To Lieut. Graham Bower/with the best compliments/of the author/Grey Library/Cape Town/ March 22nd 1882." With 3 manuscript corrections in the hand of the author (Pages 20, 59 & 152).
A linguistic and folklore study of the Khoikhoi, issued in the publisher's Oriental Series. Scarce in the first edition. Tsuni-Goam is a figure in the Khoikhoi mythology. He is sometimes called a trickster figure, similar to Cagn of the related Bushmen people. In other contexts, he appears as a patron of hunters and in some stories he even had a part in creating the world. The multiple roles of have been called a reflection of the fluidity of the Khoisan's religious resources and rituals, which are usually ambiguous and lack in standardisation. He was also a life-death-rebirth figure, dying and resurrecting himself on numerous occasions. Resulting from this, his funeral cairns can be found in many locations in southern Africa, and it is customary to throw a stone onto them for good luck.
Owner's signature on the front pastedown and front hinge starting but secure, otherwise a very good, clean tight copy.
Theophilus Hahn was the custodian of the Grey Collection in Cape Town.
- Binding Condition: Very Good Plus
- Overall Condition: Very Good
- Size: 8vo.
- Sold By: Ronald Levine - Modern First Editions
- Contact Person: Ronald Levine
- Country: South Africa
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