< Back

[Catholic Mass].
La Sainte Messe.
Publisher: Bouasse-Lebel & Massin, Paris;
Date of Publication: 1918
Stock Code: 15366
Eighteenmo, pp., 48, lithographic script hand-illuminated in gilt and bright pigments, printed on Japanese vellum. Contemporary full calf in the Arts & Crafts style; titled in gilt to spine; boards ornamented with stars and wheels in blind, and fillets in gilt; all edges gilt; gilt dentelles; marbled end-papers; silk place-marker mounted to headband. Contemporary ownership inscription in ink to front free end-paper. Text-block proud; spine a little rubbed; shelf-wear to spine-tips. Internally clean and bright. A well preserved copy. A sumptuous and beautifully designed work of popular Catholic devotion inspired by medieval manuscripts. Bouasse-Lebel & Massin were established by Eulalie Bouasse née Lebel in 1845 as a printer of devotional works, particularly cards. Drawing on decorative elements from the Gothic revival, the firm established itself as a printer of luxury gift editions. Complete copies of their book-length works in collectible condition are scarce. £450.00