The title translates roughly to "The Flesh in Joy, the Heart in Sorrow," reflecting fin-de-siècle literary themes exploring the duality of physical/sensual gratification ("la chair en joie") contrasted against emotional heartache, melancholy, and romantic or spiritual disillusionment ("le cœur en peine") This book is notable for being richly illustrated with early photographic reproductions from life. It is very fun to flip through!
René Maizeroy is a known French journalist, art critic, and novelist of the late 19th century associated with Parisian high-society and psychological fiction.
The book is undated but likely printed in 1899. The spine is leather and the boards are fuscia and black. Beautiful on your shelf or set out on a table.
Measures: 7.25” H x 5.5” W
