C. S. Sonnini

Sonnini, C. S. (Charles Sigisbert), 1751-1812.

Travels in upper and lower Egypt : undertaken by order of the old government of France. London : Printed for J. Debrett, 1800.

In addition to the standard travel narrative, Sonnini's work includes candid descriptions of "sensitive" practices, including female and male circumcision, sexual behavior, and the widespread use of cosmetics. He ended his journey into Egypt in 1780, but financial and personal difficulties postponed publication of his narrative until much later. He writes of his desire to describe contemporary conditions in Egypt, believing the country will soon "recover her ancient renown," under the government of the French.

In this copy, the plates, which were supposed to be inserted into the text, have been bound in at the end of the book. Included are numerous illustrations of architectural ruins, such as this intricate representation of an ancient statue.