Written In French
This antique 1803 French poetry book, Le Printemps d’un Proscrit by Joseph Michaud, is a powerful literary reflection on exile, compassion, and redemption written in the aftermath of the French Revolution. Bound in richly mottled calf leather with elegant gilt tooling and a dark green spine label, this early 19th-century edition features a vibrant hand-marbled endpaper design in shades of pink, green, yellow, and black. Gilt page edges add a luxurious finishing touch, and a silk ribbon marker still remains tucked inside. The poem, presented in three moving cantos, is followed by a series of philosophical letters on pity, addressed to the poet Delille. First published during France’s Napoleonic rise, this edition captures a deeply personal and historical moment, blending poetic beauty with emotional and political weight. Ideal for collectors of antique French books, poetry lovers, or anyone seeking a character-rich decorative volume with literary depth.
Condition:
This early 1800s volume is in good condition for its age with expected wear to the binding. The calf leather cover shows some rubbing and flaking, especially to the joints and head of the spine where a small loss is present. Corners are softened and worn. The binding remains firm overall, with both boards still attached. The marbled endpapers are bright and intact, and the interior pages are complete with moderate foxing and age toning throughout. The silk ribbon marker is still attached, though it is fragile and partially frayed. Gilt page edges remain beautifully bright, and the engraved frontispiece is well preserved.
