1864 L'Imitation de Jésus-Christ | Ermine Cover w/Double Clasp

L'Imitation de Jésus-Christ (The Imitation of Christ), printed by Alfred Mame et Fils, Tours, France. Published 1864. French language. 

A brown leather binding with a repeating tooled ermine pattern across the covers and spine, four raised bands along the spine, all page edges are gold gilt, two brass cross-shaped metal clasp closures, gold dentelle tooling along the front and back turn-ins, chromolithograph cover page, and several engravings throughout. 

The ermine symbol (representing a small weasel/stoat) was adopted as a heraldic emblem by the Dukes of Brittany in the 14th century to signify moral virtue. In a religious context, it is often seen as a motif in prayer books and missals like this one, symbolizing purity and ecclesiastical sovereignty. 

571 pages. 85 mm W x 127 mm

Condition: Some marks to covers and spine, wear to hinge corners and spine bands, rubbing on back corners, some foxing throughout. Good condition.  

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