Vida Do Veneravel Padre Joseph Vaz.
Lisbon, J.A. Silva 1745.
4to (201 x 133 mm.). [xxiix], 354p.
19th-century gilt-ruled crushed blue morocco (Rouselle), all edges gilt.
First Edition, the first life of the Apostle of Ceylon, Saint Joseph Vaz (1651-1711). After founding an Oratorian community in his native Goa, he clandestinely spread Catholicism throughout Sri Lanka. He learned Sinhalese and Tamil and walked the entire island, tending the sick, establishing schools, taming ferocious elephants, casting out demons, etc.
Our most important source for Vaz’s life, the Vida was translated into English, French and Italian. He was canonized in Sri Lanka in 2015 by Pope Francis. In good condition (scattered faint foxing).
¶Innocêncio da Silva, Diccionario bibliographico portuguez VII: 222.
Price: $6,500.00