Tod's work reveals much about the states of Rajasthan which had remained largely unexplored and unmapped by Europeans until the nineteenth century. In 1805 Tod and Waugh, who were serving in the Bengal Army, were sent to an embassy of the Maratha ruler, Daulat Rao Sindhia, whose army was then in Udaipur (Mewar). Tod's official duties enabled him to survey the geography and study the history, antiquities, systems of government, languages and customs of the states, which developed into this work.

First edition. 2 vols, 4to, Large folding engraved map of Rajast'han hand-coloured in outline, 46 engraved plates (of which 4 folding), 3 lithographic plates (one folding, two on india), and 3 letterpress tables (2 of which folding). (lacks half titles and list of plates vol. 1, but with the errata leaf at end of vol. I), handsome modern olive green half morocco over marbled boards, gilt lettered direct, all edges gilt, a very good set.