From the Alps to the Andes being the Autobiography of a Mountain Guide. Zurbriggen, Mattias. Alps,Himalayas,Mountaineering

First edition. 8vo. pp. xvi, 269, [2, ads.]; port. frontis., illusts.; very good in the original cloth, gilt, t.e.g., slightly faded on spine, neatly restored to head and tail of spine. Provenance: Bookplate of H. Hoek to front pastedown, and his ownership inscription to title-page. Zurbriggen (1856-1917) accompanied some of the most important late nineteenth century expeditions to the great ranges of the world. In 1892 he joined Martin Conway's Karakoram expedition. Later he took part in Edward FitzGerald's expeditions to New Zealand and Aconcagua in the Andes - of which Zurbriggen made the first ascent alone. He also joined the Workmans, assisting Fanny in her ascent of Koser Gunge, at the time the highest climb by a woman. His autobiography - the first work to be published by an Alpine guide - has become uncommon. This copy belonged to Henry William Hoek (1878-1951) a member of the Alpine Club and ski mountaineer.