Histoire de Bossuet – 1854 French Cartonnage Romantique with Gilt & Illustrated Plates | A. Mame, Tours

A richly decorative mid-19th-century French cartonnage romantique edition of Histoire de Bossuet, published in 1854 by A. Mame et Cie, Tours, one of the most renowned French publishers of finely produced religious and historical works.

The binding is particularly striking, featuring a gilt-embossed floral cartonnage design in warm red and gold tones, with an illustrated central panel depicting Bossuet in clerical dress. The spine is fully decorated in gilt with floral tooling and retains the publisher’s imprint, offering strong shelf presence and visual cohesion.

Internally, the volume contains engraved plates illustrating scenes from the life of Jacques-Bénigne Bossuet, Bishop of Meaux—celebrated theologian, historian, and one of the great French orators of the 17th century. 

Of special interest is the original 19th-century institutional prize or ownership leaf, associated with religious instruction and charitable education, adding authentic provenance and historical context that enhances collector appeal.

An excellent example of French decorative binding from the Romantic period, combining religious history, period illustration, and ornamental craftsmanship.

Binding tight. Gilt vibrant. Wrapped in mylar.

Condition: Near Fine 

Size: 4 1/2” x 7

A beautifully preserved example of 19th-century French book artistry, valued for its decorative cartonnage binding, engraved illustrations, and period provenance.