Les Heroïnes Chrétiennes ou Vies Édifiantes |1852 | Cartonnage Romantique in Gilt and Blue, Matching Boa

Title translation: The Christina Heroines, or Edifying Lives

An exquisite devotional volume in one of the most striking examples of cartonnage romantique—this 1852 edition of Les Héroïnes Chrétiennes ou Vies Édifantes was published by Martial Ardant Frères in Limoges and Paris.

Bound in brilliant cobalt blue cloth with ornate gilt-stamped decoration, the cover features a bold central floral design framed by scrolling foliate motifs, a hallmark of mid-19th-century French gift book artistry. The spine is equally elaborate with gilt title and floral elements continuing the design.

Inside, the work presents edifying biographies of Christian heroines—moral, spiritual, and courageous figures whose lives were held up as examples for young women in 19th-century Catholic France. Illustrated with finely rendered engraving/frontispiece, this volume was both a religious guide and an ornamental keepsake.

Binding is bright with some rubbing to edges and corners. Minor wear to spine ends. Frontispiece protected by original tissue guard. Structurally sound.

Condition: Very Good.

Size: 4 1/4” x 7 1/4”

This is a striking and collectible volume for lovers of decorative bindings, religious history, or 19th-century women’s literature.