[Binding] | Armorial binding, empty, white silk with coloured embroidery, c. 1690?

[Binding.]

An empty armorial binding. [France, c. 1690?]

Octavo (205 x 130 mm), white silk with central arms in coloured embroidery, pink silk pastedowns, binding slightly rubbed

This charming binding in gold and silver thread bears a coat of arms reminiscent of the Durazzo family of Venice; showing a shield with three bands or aigle éployée couronnée (sable?), argent lion passant or accompagné de trois coquilles(?) ending in banté d’argent et d’azure. The escutcheon is crowned by the violet hat with six tassels either side designating the rank of Apostolic Prothonotary. This distinguishes the owner of the binding as member of the highest college of prelates in the Roman curia, and also marks him as honorary prelate to whom the pope conferred this specific title and its privileges. The outer border of the binding is decorated with floral repeating motives in silver and three foil leaves on silk. The back of the binding bears a shield with the initials CR again crowned by the violet hat, emphasising the esteemed rank of the owner.

PROVENANCE:

Possibly a member of the Durazzo family of Venice.