Very rare complete copy of an account of the diplomatic mission of Baron Gros to Japan in 1858 by the diplomat Charles de Chassiron. The Notes are almost a literal transcription of the journal Chassiron kept during the trip. His account is important for the history of Franco-Japanese relations and gives an eyewitness report.
Baron Charles Gustave Martin de Chassiron (1818-1871) was a French diplomat, who travelled to China and Japan as one of the two "attachés" of the French Embassy under Baron Gros. During his travels in Asia, he built a large collection of Japanese and Chinese artifacts, which are now displayed at the Orbigny-Bernon Museum in La Rochelle. Jean-Baptiste-Louis Gros (known as Baron Gros, 1798-1870), was a French diplomat and later senator, as well as a notable pioneer of photography. He served as Ambassador to London (1852-1863), travelling extensively, including to China and Japan in 1857 and 1858. He was an ambassador during the Anglo-French expedition to China (1856-1860). On 9 October 1858, the Treaty of Amity and Commerce between France and Japan was concluded at Edo (Tokyo), to which he was a signatory - this treaty established diplomatic relations between the two imperial nations.
With the bookplate of E & J Duplessis Beylard on the front pastedown, a manuscript dedication written in ink by the author to an unknown recipient signed Chassiron, dated Paris 28 October(?) 1861. The binding shows some minor signs of wear along the extremities, lightly foxed throughout, the plates are somewhat browned. Otherwise in good condition. Cordier, Japonica, 549; Cordier, Sinica 2494; Numa Broc, Asie, 89-90.