History of Ancient and Modern India - Jules Lacroix de Marlès - Tours 1850

A beautifully illustrated French history book from 1850, dedicated to the ancient and modern history of India. Histoire de l'Inde ancienne et moderne was written by Jules Lacroix de Marlès and published by Ad. Mame et Cie in Tours. This copy is the third edition.

The book covers the history of India, from early religious and political developments to the Mughal dynasties and the arrival of European trading powers. It thus offers an interesting insight into how the history of India was described in Europe in the mid-19th century.

Particularly attractive is the original decorative publisher's binding. The gold-colored covers feature elaborate light-green floral motifs, elegant ornaments, and a central oval medallion. This characteristic 19th-century design gives the book a special appeal as a decorative object as well.

Inside are historical engravings, including a depiction of the capture of Seringapatam and the death of Tipu Sultan in 1799. The illustration was drawn by K. Girardet and engraved by P. Girardet. The elegant illustrated title page also contributes to the character of this edition.

The book shows clear signs of age. The cover has wear along the edges and corners, and the paper is yellowed and locally foxed. The spine and endpapers were repaired in the past, ensuring the book block feels firm. Old handwritten ownership and inventory notes are also present.

A characterful 19th-century book for lovers of historical literature, India, old engravings, and decorative bindings.

Details

• Title: Histoire de l'Inde ancienne et moderne
• Author: Jules Lacroix de Marlès
• Publisher: Ad. Mame et Cie
• Edition: Third edition
• Year: 1850
• Origin: Tours, France
• Language: French
• Format: Hard cardboard covers with decorative binding
• Decoration: Gold-colored binding with light-green floral ornaments
• Illustrations: Historical engravings, including work by K. Girardet and P. Girardet
• Extent: 236 numbered pages
• Dimensions: 18 × 11.5 cm
• Thickness: 2 cm
• Condition: Fair to good, with signs of age and previous repairs to the spine and endpapers
• Notes: Old handwritten notes and inventory number