This account was written by the Italian Jesuit G. F. de Marini based on several sources, the most important of which was his colleague G.M. Leria who worked in Laos from 1642 to 1648. It is one of the few very early accounts of that kingdom available. Originally recorded in Italian and published in 1663, the descriptive parts of the account were published in French in 1666. They appear here for the first time in English. The account deals with the considerable riches and power of the Lao kingdom during this period. It provides information, recorded through the eyes of a Jesuit, on the religion, customs, livelihood and natural qualities of the Lao people and on the much talked about splendor of the Court and religious ceremonies in Laos. With an introduction by Luigi Bressan.