The Imitation of Christ 1818 lovely illustrated decorative ornate leather book
Brian DiMambro- Antiquarian Books, Maps & Prints(Old Books, 19th Century Books, Leather Books, Decorative Book Bindings, Religion, Christianity).
L'Imitation de Jesus-Christ, Traduction de R.P. de Fonnelieu
Published 1818, Paris by Francois Janet Librarie.
582 pages. Text in French. Illustrated with five engraved plates. Early binders tag of Duplanil fils, Paris.
Beautiful period full leather binding, raised bands, ornate gilt compartment decorations & title lettering on contrasting black leather label. Covers with ornate outline panels of running patterns, gilt board edges and turn-ins, all edges gilt, marbled endpapers.
Book is physically over 200 years old and shows some signs of handling and time. Book is not new or in "new" condition.
Binding gently age worn, leather rubbed but still supple, joints slightly scuffed, old repair to top compartment, tiny chip at head of rear joint, etc.- remains overall very attractive as a hand made object of this era.
Text block paper is gently toned, light to moderate scattered age spotting (heaviest on plates), internally still well preserved, tight, sound.
Still attractive on the shelf. Book displays a pleasing and unique age patina and is in nice antiquarian condition, any age flaws easy to overlook or forgive.
Please review photos for more detail and our best attempt to convey how this antique book survives.
Book Measures c. 8 1/4" H x 5 1/4" W.
[B2709].