Harriet Martineau - Traditions de Palestine - 1838

Harriet Martineau

Traditions de Palestine

Translated by Madame Amable Tastu
Paris: L. Curmer, [1838]
xi, 290 pages + 1 engraved plate
20 cm
Original decorated hardcover

A rare and elegant early French edition of Harriet Martineau’s biblical-historical narrative set in Palestine, published in Paris by the celebrated editor L. Curmer, known for his finely produced illustrated works.

This edition is the French translation by Madame Amable Tastu, issued circa 1838.

Martineau (1802–1876), one of the most important 19th-century English intellectuals and writers, presents in this work a literary and devotional reconstruction of biblical Palestine, blending narrative, reflection, and theological interpretation.

Contents

• Avant-propos du traducteur
• Chap. I – L’espérance des Hébreux
• Chap. II – La vie dans la mort
• Chap. III – Cantiques de Louanges
• Chap. IV – Le désert réjoui
• Chap. V – Voilà ton fils
• Chap. VI – L’heure du repos
• Chap. VII – Malheur à toi, Jérusalem!

The text focuses on biblical scenes around Jerusalem and ancient Judea, written in refined literary French.

Illustrations

• Engraved frontispiece
• Numerous in-text wood-engraved illustrations
• Decorative chapter initials and vignettes

The illustrations depict biblical scenes, Jerusalem landscapes, temple architecture, and narrative moments, typical of Curmer’s elegant 19th-century production.

Bibliographic Details

• Author: Harriet Martineau
• Title: Traditions de Palestine
• Translator: Madame Amable Tastu
• Publisher: L. Curmer
• Place: Paris
• Date: circa 1838
• Pagination: xi + 290 pages
• Size: approx. 20 cm
• Language: French
• Binding: Original decorative hardcover with gilt spine title

Condition

• Original binding present
• Spine gilt title clear
• Wear to corners and edges
• Interior with moderate foxing (typical for the period)
• Pages complete
• Engraved plate present
• Structurally sound

Overall: Good condition for an early 19th-century illustrated Holy Land work.

Collectibility

Early Curmer imprint
Important female author of the 19th century
Biblical Palestine subject
Illustrated devotional-historical narrative
Attractive period binding

A desirable early illustrated Holy Land literary work from the golden age of French romantic biblical publishing.