Old prayer book Roman Parishioner 1921 worn binding vintage

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This antique book is a Roman Missal, identifiable by the gilded inscription "PAROISSIEN ROMAIN" (Roman Missal) on the spine. It is a Catholic liturgical work intended for prayer and mass, typical of early 20th-century French editions. The visible cover features a grained finish, likely a cardboard binding covered with a leather-like material, heavily worn by time. The overall hue is a very dark black or blue, with large areas of abrasion revealing the light underlayer, particularly on the edges and corners.

The spine of the book shows several raised bands, characteristic elements of old bindings. The gilding of the title is still visible despite significant wear and extensive discoloration on the upper part. The front cover, visible in the photo, is marked by multiple signs of wear, scratches, and surface loss, attesting to intensive use and a long history. The lower corner is particularly damaged, revealing the internal layers of the binding.

The overall form remains compact and traditional, with a straight spine and classic proportions for portable prayer books of that era. No additional decoration or ornamentation is visible on the cover, which corresponds to the expected sobriety of early 20th-century liturgical works.

The photograph showcases the book in context, placed on raw wood, with a blurred church interior in the background, reinforcing the object's religious authenticity. Only the front face and spine are visible; no information about the interior pages, back cover, or top edge is available in this image.

Condition

Used item sold as is. The binding shows strong signs of wear, with numerous losses, rubbing, and visible tears, especially on the edges and lower corner. The gilding on the spine remains legible but partially faded. The whole shows an authentic patina, typical of old prayer books that have seen much use.

Did you know? The Roman Missal is a liturgical book used in the Catholic Church to follow mass and daily prayers. Before the liturgical reform of the 20th century, these works were often personalized by the faithful and could accompany several generations of the same family.

AFW Reassurance

Fast and careful shipping, professional packaging adapted for antique items. Seller specialized in religious books and heritage objects.

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