1685 Chronicle of France — Illustrated Dutch Edition

Published in Amsterdam in 1685, this substantial volume of Chronyk van Vrankryk, or Chronicle of France, brings more than three centuries of history to the collected library. Written by François Eudes de Mézeray and translated into Dutch by G. van Broekhuizen, it presents French royal history through the language and craftsmanship of the 17th-century printed book.

An elaborate engraved frontispiece introduces the work with regal figures, classical imagery, and military trophies. Within, engraved portraits of French kings accompany the historical text, their faces framed by ornamental surrounds and identifying inscriptions.

The photographed opening identifies the first part, beginning with Faramond and continuing through the reign of Raoul. Generous pages, decorative initials, and early typography make the volume compelling both as a historical text and as an example of early European bookmaking.

Beautiful displayed on a library table or supported open to an engraving, this is a richly atmospheric piece for a collector of antique books, royal history, or printed art.

Details

• Title: Chronyk van Vrankryk — Chronicle of France
• Author: François Eudes de Mézeray
• Translator: G. van Broekhuizen
• Publication: Amsterdam, 1685
• Publishers: Timotheus ten Hoorn and Jan Bouman
• Language: Dutch
• Subject: French history and monarchy
• Illustrations: Engraved allegorical frontispiece and royal portrait plates
• Offering: One volume; completeness and plate count unverified
• Binding: Antique binding; covering material unconfirmed
• Condition: Substantial age-related wear, including worn inner hinges with exposed binding structure, creasing, page toning, scattered spotting, and edge wear. Handle gently and support the binding when open.

Measurements: 7.25" L x 9" H x 3" D