Versailles - Lot 291

Versailles Paris, Furne et Cie, booksellers and publishers, 1856. Large folio, romantic period binding in full red chagrin with cold-stamped and gilt decoration, richly ornamented spine. A superb publication dedicated to the famous Historical Museum of Versailles, created at the initiative of King Louis-Philippe to bring together the major episodes of national history in a single location. Conceived as a veritable pantheon of French memory, the museum at the time housed several thousand paintings, sculptures, and documents illustrating the defining events and major figures of the monarchy, the Empire, and the nation. The book reproduces and provides commentary on the principal paintings on display in the galleries of Versailles. Each scene is accompanied by a historical text based on the works of the leading historians of the time, notably Henri Martin and Michaud, offering the reader a comprehensive, illustrated overview of French history. Battles, founding episodes, portraits of sovereigns, military heroes, and political events come together to form a true national narrative intended to educate and inspire the public. Published by Furne, one of the leading publishers of illustrated works in the 19th century, this imposing volume bears witness to the golden age of the illustrated history book. It is an integral part of the movement to popularize history that accompanied the development of luxury publishing during the Second Empire. This copy is bound in an elegant, decorative contemporary binding in solid red chagrin, adorned with gilt frames and gilt metalwork on the covers. There is some minor scuffing and slight wear on the headbands and joints, but nothing serious. The interior is fresh despite a few scattered foxing spots. A beautiful, prestigious work dedicated to the Historical Museum of Versailles, a remarkable testament to the romantic and patriotic vision of French history in the mid-19th century.