1890 Missel Romain à l’usage des fidèles – Alfred Mame et Fils, Tours – Full Leather, Gilded Edges, Engravings
Description:
Beautiful 19th-century Roman Catholic missal in French and Latin, printed in 1890 by the renowned Alfred Mame et Fils of Tours, France. This edition, à l’usage des fidèles (“for the use of the faithful”), was intended for lay participation in the Tridentine Mass and is approved by the Archbishop of Tours.
Features:
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Publisher & Date: Alfred Mame et Fils, Tours – 1890
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Binding: Full dark brown leather with raised bands and gilt title on spine (MISSEL)
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Edges: All page edges gilded
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Illustrations: Includes full-page engraved plates (e.g., L’Annonciation) protected by tissue guards
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Languages: Latin liturgical text with French translation
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Condition: Binding solid, leather shows light scuffing and a small split in the leather along the connection to the spine and cover; moderate foxing to some pages; engravings sharp and intact.
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Dimensions:
Weight - 490g
Height - 15cm
Width - 12cm
Thickness - 3.5cm
Why would you want this?
This isn’t just a book — it’s a tangible link to Catholic devotion as it was practiced over 130 years ago. The gilded edges, finely tooled leather, and engravings aren’t just decorative; they reflect the craftsmanship and reverence of the period. Whether you’re a collector of religious artifacts, a student of liturgical history, or someone who treasures objects with a story to tell, this missal embodies faith, art, and history in one volume. It’s the kind of book you can display proudly, study deeply, or pass down as a meaningful heirloom.
Historical significance:
A fine example of late 19th-century French Catholic bookmaking, reflecting the devotional life of the era before the liturgical reforms of the 20th century. Alfred Mame was among the premier religious publishers of his day, known for quality bindings, rich illustrations, and durability.
