Across Australia
By Baldwin Spencer & F.J. Gillen
Complete 2 Volume Set
With Illustrations and Maps (all present)
Published by MacMillan And Co Limited: London 1912 1st
Edition
"Across Australia (1912) by Baldwin Spencer and F.J. Gillen is a landmark account of an ambitious scientific and ethnographic expedition across the Australian continent. The book documents the authors' journey from the MacDonnell Ranges in Central Australia to the Gulf of Carpentaria, covering thousands of kilometres of largely uncharted and sparsely inhabited terrain. Spencer and Gillen, both pioneering anthropologists, combined their exploration with detailed observations of the landscape, flora, fauna, and, most significantly, the Aboriginal peoples they encountered. The work is richly illustrated with photographs and maps, offering readers a rare and vivid glimpse into the interior of Australia during the early 20th century.
A central focus of Across Australia is its in-depth documentation of Aboriginal cultures, languages, rituals, and social structures, particularly among the Arrernte, Warumungu, and other central and northern groups. Spencer and Gillen's approach was groundbreaking for its time, treating Indigenous Australians as complex and sophisticated societies rather than mere curiosities. This book remains a foundational text in Australian anthropology and ethnography. The book serves not only as a travelogue and scientific report but also as a testament to the vastness and cultural richness of the Australian interior, capturing a moment in history before major changes brought by colonisation and settlement took fuller effect."
General wear, fading, minor spine creasing to original cloth bindings with a few bumps as shown. Binding is in good shape with no loose pages (2 plates sit slightly proud of the text block in volume 2 but are not loose). Small inscriptions on front blank endpapers with both books otherwise unmarked. Pages are clean with pleasant age toning and are very well presented. All pages are present and the books are complete in 254 & 515 pages respectively. A desirable 2 volume set in very good condition overall. Please study photos to further understand condition.
Size 22cm x 15cm x 4cm (x 2 volumes)
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Volume 1 has 254 Pages
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Volume 2 has 515 Pages
