LEWIS, James Otto. [The Aboriginal Port Folio. Philadelphia: Printed by Lehman & Duval, published by the author, 1835-1836].

The first edition, containing 72 hand-colored plates, inscribed "Edwar Lytton Bulwer, Esq. / From his Friend / Willis Gaylord Clark." Lewis's Aboriginal Port Folio "was the first attempt made in the United States at a large scale work devoted to the American Indian. Lewis conceived the idea of a folio series of Indian portraits while accompanying Gov. Lewis Cass of Michigan on a tour of the Great Lakes in 1825-1827. He was not able to begin publication until 1835, when the work was advertised as ten parts, each with eight plates, issued in wrappers. The lithographers, George Lehman and Peter S. Duval, did a creditable job, but could not overcome the miserable execution of poor Lewis. Subscribers dropped away, and the last two parts are famously rare as a result. The supplement in a promised broadside advertisement never appeared. Nonetheless, it is a pioneering work among such publications" (Stamped with a National Character). America Pictured to the Life 54; Bennett p. 68; Field 936; Howes L-315 ("c"); Reese, James Otto Lewis and His Aboriginal Port Folio, New Haven 2008; Stamped with a National Character, 23; Sabin 40812.

Folio (446 x 278mm). With original blue printed paper wrapper to No. 3 and letterpress advertisements by Lewis in the first three parts. 72 (of 80) hand-colored lithographed plates after Lewis by Lehman & Duval (a little mild spotting and finger soiling). Original boards (rebacked with later spine, corners renewed).