LA DOCUMENTATION FRANÇAISE. - Lot 169

LA DOCUMENTATION FRANÇAISE. Byzantine Civilization. Photographic Documentation, special edition. Paris, La Documentation française (Published by the Office of the Prime Minister), circa 1958. In-4, loose-leaf format in the publisher’s illustrated folder. A comprehensive documentary collection devoted to Byzantine civilization, published in the renowned *Documentation Photographique* series. Intended for educational purposes and the dissemination of historical knowledge, it comprises a summary booklet accompanied by a set of photographic plates depicting the major monuments, works of art, and historical artifacts of the Byzantine Empire. The work traces the political, religious, economic, and artistic history of Byzantium from the founding of Constantinople to the fall of the Empire in 1453. The particularly rich iconography features reproductions of mosaics, icons, illuminated manuscripts, ivory carvings, sculptures, coins, textiles, religious and civil architecture, as well as the major monuments of Constantinople and the Christian East. The texts highlight Byzantium’s essential role in preserving and transmitting the ancient heritage to the medieval West. A complete copy with its cover and plates. The cover shows slight signs of wear and minor marginal scuffing; the interior is in good condition. Sold as is.