A beautiful mid 19th century French cartonnage book, Valentine ou L’Ascendant de la Vertu, which translates to Valentine, or The Path of Virtue, by Eulalie B., published in Lille by L. Lefort in 1857. This is the third edition.
The book features engraved illustrations, including a lovely engraved frontispiece, and an especially striking turquoise blue and gold cartonnage binding heavily decorated with embossed roses, scrolling foliage and ornate gilt work. The front cover retains its original inset pastoral landscape illustration.
Good antique condition overall. The spine remains quite well preserved with some visible age related wear, particularly toward the extremities. Additional light rubbing and wear to the corners and edges consistent with its nearly 170 year age. Interior pages show occasional foxing and toning.
