first edition Full Morocco
1887 · Paris
Paris: Gruel & Engelmann, 1887. First edition. Full Morocco. Fine. Lavish 19th century rendering of a Book of Hours using bright chromolithography that cogently replicates the exquisite detail, sublimity and sheer miraculousness of the Medieval biblio staple. Each of the 192 plates (including title page) is unique with the high Gothic ornamentation that is usually encountered only under glass at better art museums. Usually the ornament frames Gothic type of the text in French and Latin, but occasionally the framed is instead a miniature painting. Credits for this production are Engelmann, artistic director and chromolithography; painting, Ed. Moreau; actual printing on stone, A. Pralon. Lush silk moire endpapers. Dentelle ornamentation on leather perimeter. All leaves are bright and clean, and the binding is tight. Gilt TEG. Silk ribbon placemark intact. Metal mounts on boards with crown and initials HE and floreate design for clasp stays. A minor scratch of brown morocco on front board and the most minor of shelfwear besides. Book measures 6.5 by 5 inches, or 16 by 13 cm. Other than loss of leather strap clasps, this is about as good as it gets.
(Inventory #: 001295)