Devotional Printing in France

Originally exhibited May 26–August 25, 2017
Entry Hall

Introduction

The history of religious printing often emphasizes large and elaborately produced books held by wealthy individuals and institutions. Yet publishers also responded to the desire among the general population to possess and utilize religious books. Accessible, small format works provided an intimate experience in prayer, meditation, and religious instruction. The works featured in this exhibition document French interests in personal devotion in the seventeenth through nineteenth centuries. The publishing histories of these works also demonstrate the international and cultural importance of themes inherited over several centuries and shared across languages and borders.

Credits

Bridwell Library Special Collections