A beautiful 19th century French cartonnage edition of Gondicar: Episode from the Time of the Crusades by Louis Friedel, published in Tours by Alfred Mame et Fils in 1875.
The flat cartonnage binding features an elaborate architectural pattern in shades of blue, pale blue and gold, with a charming inset illustration of an artist painting beside the water. The interior includes a dramatic engraved frontispiece depicting a scene from the Crusades.
Good antique condition overall. This example has a completely flat cover design rather than the raised or embossed decoration seen on some cartonnage bindings, while still retaining beautiful gilt and blue detailing. Very little wear to the spine with light age related wear to the edges and corners. Scattered foxing to the interior pages consistent with age.
