Élévations à Dieu by Jacques-Bénigne Bossuet, 19th Century French Binding

This item is an antique small-format (petit octavo or duodecimo) volume bound in dark brown or black full grained leather, likely crushed morocco or goatskin, dating from the mid-to-late 19th century. The spine features five raised bands with gilt-ruled lines accentuating each band. The second compartment from the top contains the title 'ELEVATIONS A DIEU' and the author 'BOSSUET' in faded gilt lettering. The leather exhibits a distinct pebbled grain texture characteristic of quality period binding. The construction indicates a sewn binding with rounded edges. Condition-wise, the book shows significant signs of age and wear; the leather at the head and foot of the spine is rubbed and chipped, with some loss of material at the top-left crown. The gilding has dulled over time, and there is visible scuffing along the joints and edges of the boards. The text block appears slightly darkened on the edges, consistent with shelf age. The craftsmanship is typical of 19th-century French religious publishing, prioritizing durability and a sober, elegant aesthetic. The provided context suggests it may have been sold through a Parisian or regional French bookseller (libraire) for a historical price of 1 franc 60 centimes.