Rare, 1923, Grammaire Amarigna, Lazarists, Addis-Ababa, Ethiopia, Early Amharic Grammar

Description

Very rare early Amharic grammar, titled Grammaire Amarigna, written by a Lazarist (Vincentian) missionary and printed in Addis-Ababa, Ethiopia, in 1923 by Imprimerie Alexis Desvages. 

Early locally printed works in Ethiopia, especially linguistic or missionary publications, are increasingly scarce and sought after by collectors of African studies, Semitic languages, and missionary history.

 

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Grammaire Amarigna

• Author: Unnamed Lazarist Missionary

• Publisher / Printer: Imprimerie Alexis Desvages

• Place: Addis-Ababa, Ethiopia

• Year: 1923

• Pages: IV + 167

• Binding: Original softcover

• Dimensions: 21.5 cm × 15.5 cm

• Language: French

• Condition: Good vintage condition with age-related wear consistent with a century-old book. Please refer to the photos for details.

 

About the Work

Amharic is one of the principal Ethio-Semitic languages and today serves as the official working language of the Ethiopian federal government, while also functioning as a lingua franca across the country. Early grammars like this one were essential linguistic tools for missionaries, scholars, and administrators seeking to understand or communicate in Amharic during the early 20th century.

 

About the Lazarists

The Congregation of the Mission (CM)—commonly called the Vincentians or Lazarists—was founded by Vincent de Paul and became deeply involved in missionary work, education, and linguistic study across several continents. Their presence in Ethiopia played a role in documenting the Amharic language for Western audiences.

 

Shipping

 

Securely packaged and shipped with tracking for safe international delivery.