1856 VIRGIN MARY LIFE OF CHRISTIAN DEVOTIONAL HOLY FAMILY JESUS CHRIST ILLUSTR. For Sale

LIFE OF THE MOST BLESSED VIRGIN MARY. By Monsignore Romuald Gentilucci. Published in 1856 by Edward Dunigan and Brother, New York. 10\" x 7\" full leather binding, gilt title on spine, religious motifs in gilt on front and back covers. Illustrated with full-page steel engravings. 391 pages.Description:

A beautiful and substantial mid‑19th‑century Catholic devotional work, Life of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary by Rev. B. Gentilucci (1856) offers a deeply reverent, richly detailed biography of the Mother of Christ. Written in the warm, contemplative style characteristic of the period, Gentilucci traces Mary’s life from her miraculous birth and early consecration through the Annunciation, Nativity, the hidden years at Nazareth, her sorrows during the Passion, and her glorious Assumption. The narrative blends Scripture, early Church tradition, and classical Catholic commentary, presenting Mary as the model of purity, obedience, maternal devotion, and spiritual strength.

A major highlight of this edition is its numerous full‑page engravings, each printed on its own sheet and depicting key scenes from the lives of Mary and Jesus. These plates include dramatic and contemplative images such as the Annunciation, the Nativity, the Presentation in the Temple, the Flight into Egypt, the Crucifixion, and other pivotal moments. Rendered in the elegant linework and shading typical of mid‑19th‑century religious art, the engravings give the volume a strong visual and devotional presence. For collectors, these illustrations are a significant feature — they elevate the book from a simple biography to a fully illustrated devotional keepsake, suitable for display or quiet meditation.

The book is bound in full leather, with gilt titling on the spine and gilt religious motifs on both covers — the Virgin Mary on the front and a crucifix on the rear. This decorative binding reflects the craftsmanship of the era and gives the volume a dignified, ornamental appearance. Combined with its illustrated plates and devotional content, this 1856 edition stands as a striking example of period Catholic publishing.

Features

• Full gilt‑decorated leather binding

• Numerous full‑page engravings of Mary and Jesus

• 1856 publication

• Classic Catholic devotional biography

• Period typography and layout

• Ideal for collectors of antique religious works, Marian devotionals, or illustrated 19th‑century theology

Condition (Fair)

• Full leather binding with gilt decorations on both covers

• Gilt spine title present and legible

• Edge wear and rubbing consistent with a large, heavy book from 1856

• Binding firm and structurally sound

• Pages show moisture blemishing and age toning, typical for a volume approaching 170 years old

• Occasional small edge tears from long handling

• All engravings present; no major losses

• A complete, solid example with honest antique wear

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