DICTIONNAIRE HISTORIQUE ET ARTISTIQUE DE LA ROSE. Contenant Un Résumé De L'Histoire De La Rose Chez Tous Les Peuples Anciens Et Modernes; Ses Propriétés, Ses Vertus, Etc.
Melun: E. Drosne, Imprimeur Breveté, 1896. First book edition (previously published as a series in the JOURNAL DES ROSES from 1893 to 1896). This "dictionary" is more properly described as a compilation of diverse entries relating to the rose's history, traditions, stories and legends, origins, characteristics, ceremonial and decorative uses, etc. It serves as a work of plant lore with far-ranging entries on subjects as diverse as ceramics (including a four page treatment of the use of the rose image in pottery, etc.) sorcery, Napoleon and numerous other historical figures and similar diverse topics. Stock 115. 8vo (22.1 x 14.2 cm); (vi) + 207 + (v) pp.
Original pink paper wrappers, slight yellowing from age; text largely unopened; minor little tear to lower rear free endpaper, but a fine copy.
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