For sale is a beautifully preserved French book detailing prayer and worship during Holy Week, evidently owned and used by a monastery in Brittany, France. A true work of art from the 17th century! Condition G to G+ throughout, lots of wear and repair. Original gilt tooled crushed black morocco binding. 8vo, about 5" x 7.5" x 2".

Bound in its original 17th-century gilt tooled crushed morocco binding. Spine features an intricate floral design, covers with simple single panel with lovely corner flourishes and a delicate central diamond. Features a name on both covers: Sr Catherine de Ste Agnes. I believe this refers to a Sister (Sœur in French) Catherine, perhaps of the Convent of Saint Agnes in Prague? The text is red ruled throughout. There are also several fine engravings by a François de Bois, shown in the pictures. This book shows three centuries of use and reverence, with many 18th century margin notes instructing the priest or deacon leading worship what to and when. There are also paper bookmarks tipped in with handwritten labels, indicating where specific services (matins, vespers, complines) each day begin. There are also many paper repairs, each professionally done at different points in the book's history.

The name printed on the covers suggests provenance with the Convent of Saint Agnes in Prague, established by the Poor Clares in the 13th Century. It is certainly possible this book was used by the Convent, and owned by a Sister Catherine, however there I have found no other evidence for this in this book.

An 18th century handwritten note on the title page identifies this book as having been owned by a monastery in Brittany, Notre-Dame de Charité de Saint-Brieuc. Founded in 1641 in Caen, the Order of Notre-Dame de Charité was a religious order for women, with many houses throughout France. I'm not sure when exactly they expanded to Saint-Brieuc, but this book was certainly there and used every year prior to the French Revolution, particularly 1792 when many in religious orders found themselves at odds with the anti-relgious sentiments popular with revolutionaries. Based on handwriting, I believe this was where the majority of the notes and bookmarks were made/added, and most paper repairs performed.

I've done my best to accurately and honestly describe and photograph this item. However, if you'd like more pictures or have questions, please feel free to message me. I encourage all who are interested to make an offer, as all offers will be considered!