First edition of Father Alfred T. Bryant’s Zulu-English Dictionary (1905)

This 1905 first edition of Father Alfred T. Bryant’s Zulu-English Dictionary (printed locally at the Mariannhill Mission Press in Pinetown) is a monumental work of African linguistics and ethnography, but what makes this specific copy exceptional is its provenance and layers of history.

Pioneering Record of Hlonipha: Beyond standard lexicography, Bryant’s dictionary was one of the earliest systematic attempts to record hlonipha—the avoidance language practices spoken traditionally by Zulu women out of respect for male in-laws. It also doubled as a foundational historical text, carrying a preliminary account of Zulu origins before Bryant published his masterwork, Olden Times in ZuluLand and Natal.

Early Natal Ownership: The flyleaf features early 20th-century ownership signatures, including C. Kirkman Barry dated 15/5/05—making this copy purchased within months of its initial printing—alongside a secondary ownership signature of W. F. Forder.

Distinctive Cape Judaica Provenance: The front endpaper bears the oval ink owner’s stamp (Ex Libris) of David Prisman, set around a Magen David (Star of David). David Prisman was a notable South African book collector and legal practitioner based in Cape Town, making this a well-traveled volume with deep ties to both Natal and Cape bibliophilic history.

185mm x 250mm x 50mm

Boards worn; all edges spotted; pages mellowed.

Complete.

R2,500