1855 René d’Anjou | French Cartonnage Romantique | Deluxe Gilt & Chromolithographic Publisher’s Binding | Mame, Tours

One of the most visually striking examples of the celebrated French cartonnage romantique style produced by the renowned publisher Ad. Mame of Tours.

Published in 1855, this third edition of René d’Anjou by Cordelier-Delanoue is presented in an exceptionally decorative publisher’s binding featuring elaborate gilt embossed ornamentation over cream cloth, richly printed floral decoration, and an applied chromolithographic portrait of René d’Anjou to the upper board. The rear cover continues the floral motif with a central bouquet framed by intricate gilt scrollwork.

Books produced by Mame during the mid-nineteenth century are among the finest examples of French Victorian publisher’s bindings. These deluxe gift books combined colorful chromolithographic decoration with lavish gilt embossing, making them enduring icons of French decorative bookbinding.

The volume is illustrated throughout with numerous engraved plates protected by their original tissue guards, depicting dramatic scenes from the life of René d’Anjou. 

Today these ornate Mame bindings are collected both for their craftsmanship and for their remarkable shelf appeal.

A richly illustrated work of historical fiction inspired by the life of René of Anjou (1409–1480), the famed “Good King René.” The narrative follows the prince through medieval warfare, political intrigue, courtly life, and personal trials while celebrating the ideals of chivalry, honor, and steadfast virtue

Condition: Very Good. Publisher’s decorative cloth binding remains bright and exceptionally attractive, with vivid colors and strong gilt decoration. Light rubbing and wear along the extremities, particularly at the spine ends and corners. Small areas of cloth wear at the joints and board edges consistent with age. Binding remains sound.Interior clean. Original tissue guards remain present over the engraved plates. Decorative gilt endpapers are present. An attractive, well-preserved example displaying beautifully. 

Size: 4 1/2” x 7 1/4”

Increasingly difficult to source in such decorative condition, these richly ornamented Mame cartonnage bindings have become highly sought after by collectors of nineteenth-century French publisher’s bindings.