3 volumes, 8vo (211 x 132 mm). Half-title in volume 3 (not called for in other volumes), folding engraved map, 14 lithographic plates (5 chromolithographic, 8 tinted), 3 engraved plans (2 folding). (Lacking 24pp. publisher’s advertisements in vol. I, short tear to the half-title gutter margin, minor offsetting and toning.) Contemporary half calf, black morocco lettering-pieces gilt, edges marbled (some minor soiling, slight wear to extremities). Provenance: Johann Kruse (1859-1927), violinist and his wife, Dora Kruse (1866-1953) (bookplates).

FIRST EDITION of Burton’s account of his pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina in disguise as a native Muslim, demonstrating his prowess with local language and customs. He arrived in Medina on 25 July 1853 and departed on 31 August for Medina, which he reached on 11 September 1853, performing the associated rituals of Hajj at the Great Mosque and the Kaaba. Of his experience, Burton wrote: “I have seen the religious ceremonies of many lands, but never–nowhere–aught so solemn, so impressive as this spectacle,” (vol. III, p.316). Abbey Travel 368; Penzer, pp. 49-50 (“very rare and increasing in value”); Spink 7.