Thor Heyerdahl spent much of his life investigating the mystery of Easter Island's ancient giant statues. How were they made? How were they moved? What was the origin of the native legend that the statues 'walked'?
The RA Expeditions, published in 1971, is a 334-page book featuring numerous color photographs and a black-and-white map at the beginning. It is in used condition with a slightly worn cover and a satisfactory spine, while the interior remains fresh. Text is in English. Dewey classification: 386-Marine.
When Thor Heyerdahl was invited by the government of the Maldive Islands to investigate recent archaeological finds there, his reaction was initially one of surprise. But although he knew little about these 'dots on the map of the Indian Ocean', and less about the language and customs of the people, he did understand how the invitation implied a changed official attitude. Maldive history had been reckoned to begin in the year 583 of the Holy Prophet, or AD1153, when islanders embraced the Islamic faith; and any pre Moslem relics found were usually destroyed. Now the president was saying, 'We are a young republic, yes. But we have proof that we too have an old history, just as our neighbours on the continent!' Thus unfolded for Thor Heyerdahl a fascinating historical and archaeological detective story, as he penetrated into the mystery of the Maldive past.
4to. A very good copy, virtually as new in royal blue dw with gilt titles and sailing ship on front cover. Minor wear to dw edges and corners and a few scrapes and nicks to centre rear. VERY HEAVY BOOK, WILL INCUR ADDITIONAL POSTAGE CHARGE.
The author and explorer of Kon-Tiki fame here recounts for the layman his archeological adventures on Easter island, where his expedition uncovered many facts about the island's giant statues, secret caves, ancient stone-carving natives, cannibalism, and civil wars.