Art Books

 Art Books - Various Timeframes/Materials

These Art books cover a variety of topics & art using a variety of materials. (Metals, Wood, Cloth, Tiling, Stone, ...)  Some of these books cover how a piece was made, examples of period artists notebooks, etc. 

Several of these books are in German or French language. I've found that taking a picture of the page with my tablet or phone while in Google Translate helped me to read the bits I needed help with.

Check out this sheet for the list with prices. I'm open to "offers" for bundles of books. If you'd like a picture of a specific book in the library, please just let me know.

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1a-vbLTtPSgw1eNIvRmwpHUylavL7vtyxuJkDtjjCsRI/edit?usp=sharing

Gisla's Library -- All Books

Gisla's Library - The picture below is a few of the books that aren't showing in other pictures. 

The link below is to all books that are for sale from Gisla's Library. As explained in the initial Blog Post,  we are downsizing. I'd rather that these books and belongings go to people who will appreciate them. These books cover a variety of topics - most are SCA period, a very few are outside of period.

Several of these books are in German or French language. I've found that taking a picture of the page with my tablet or phone while in Google Translate helped me to read the bits I needed help with.

Check out this sheet for the list with prices. I'm open to "offers" for bundles of books. If you'd like a picture of a specific book in the library, please just let me know.

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1HKSrHbALW1coNN6hBRwXGXlxSh3yzcJNZT00UnZQ1T0/edit?usp=sharing

History Books

Various History Books including Social History

Covering a range of topics from ancient civilizations to modern times, this selection provides thoughtful, well-researched content. Whether you're interested in the rise and fall of empires, cultural and technological developments, or the lives of key historical figures, these books offer a detailed and educational look at the past. With a focus on clear storytelling and thorough research, these books provide valuable insights into the events that shaped the world..

Several of these books are in French. I've found that taking a picture of the page with my tablet or phone while in Google Translate helped me to read the bits I needed help with.

Check out this sheet for the list with prices. I'm open to "offers" for bundles of books. If you'd like a picture of a specific book in the library, please just let me know.

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1mQ0S4EPsmn_ZhmbTNGiUz5jiJKgK7BCE5yJWGYKidNQ/edit?usp=sharing

Costumer's Library

A Costumer's Library - Survey to Topic Specific Books 

These books cover a variety of topics - survey of costume history, specific eras with extant examples, details on the what the archaeologists found, illuminations/paintings from period artists, and discussion around what was made, how it was made, and what remains today.

Several of these books are in German or French language. I've found that taking a picture of the page with my tablet or phone while in Google Translate helped me to read the bits I needed help with.

Check out this sheet for the list with prices. I'm open to "offers" for bundles of books. If you'd like a picture of a specific book in the library, please just let me know.

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1xdhPw15QyP47HmCNMLrOpeM_flV4KKilDh9yWSY-cc8/edit?usp=sharing

Carolingian, Merovingian & Gaulish Collection

Looking to fill out your Library for books on Merovingian, Carolingian, and Gaulish history, life, and art?

Are you looking to enhance your collection with rare and insightful titles on Merovingian, Carolingian, and Gaulish history? Whether you're a history enthusiast, researcher, passionate reader, or (as I am) just curious about a different life and time, this carefully curated selection has everything you need to fill out your library. From the rise of the Merovingian dynasty to the era of Charlemagne and the cultural heritage of ancient Gaul, you'll find books that dive deep into these fascinating periods.

Several of these books are in German or French language. I've found that taking a picture of the page with my tablet or phone while in Google Translate helped me to read the bits I needed help with.

Check out this sheet for the list with prices. I'm open to "offers" for bundles of books. If you'd like a picture of a specific book in the library, please just let me know.

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1XlgaE0vU7pqkTtHjxY_Bzp38ODtkJFlPWpMvhPZ6MrU/edit?usp=sharing

A Child's Life in the Middle Ages

Danièle Alexandre-Bidon and Pierre Riché. La vie des enfants au Moyen Âge, Sorbier, 1997.

"La vie des enfants au Moyen Âge" (The Life of Children in the Middle Ages) by Danièle Alexandre-Bidon and Pierre Riché offers a comprehensive exploration of what childhood was like during the medieval period. The book delves into the social, cultural, and religious aspects of children's lives from birth through adolescence in the Middle Ages, focusing on how they were raised, educated, and integrated into society.

The book provides a detailed examination of children's roles within medieval society, from their early years in family life to their experiences in education, work, and play. Using historical records, literature, art, and legal documents, the authors reconstruct what daily life was like for children during the medieval period. The text covers various aspects of children's experiences, such as their birth and infancy, health, education, games, and the expectations placed on them by their families and society.

This hardback book full of beautiful color scenes of daily life is in good->excellent condition We pasted a book plate on the first sheet, but it is otherwise in fine condition. This book is in French. The dimensions are approximately 20x1x25.6 cm 9782732033891.

I'm asking $25.

Tombs of St Denis Cathedral

Alain Erlande-Brandenburg. L'Église Abbatiale de Saint Denis: Tome II, Les Tombeaux Royaux, Société Internationale De Diffusion Et D'editions Scientifiques, 1979.

"Église Abbatiale de Saint Denis: Tome II, Les Tombeaux Royaux" focuses on the royal tombs housed in the Basilica of Saint-Denis, one of the most significant medieval abbey churches in France. This pamphlet is part of a larger scholarly series dedicated to the study of the architecture, art, and history of the basilica, particularly as the burial site for French kings and queens.

The book provides a comprehensive analysis of the royal tombs located in Saint-Denis, which holds the remains of many French monarchs from the Merovingian era to the 19th century. It examines the art and symbolism of the tombs, the historical context of their creation, and their significance as part of the French royal tradition. The second volume, Les Tombeaux Royaux, delves deeply into the artistic and political importance of these monuments, tracing their evolution over centuries and highlighting the role of the basilica as the center of royal burial and commemoration.

This is a black and white pamphlet with photos and accompanying text.  The spine has some shelf wear, but it is otherwise in fine condition. This book is in French. The dimensions are approximately 6x8.5 in. 9782868610010.

I'm asking $25.

History of Costume in the West - French Version

 

Francois Boucher. Histoire Du Costume en Occident Flammarion, 1996.

"Histoire du Costume en Occident" by François Boucher is a comprehensive study of Western fashion, tracing the evolution of clothing styles from ancient times to the 20th century. Originally published in French, the book is known for its in-depth analysis, detailed illustrations, and historical accuracy.

The book is organized chronologically, providing a detailed account of how fashion and clothing have developed across different periods and regions of Western civilization. François Boucher, a renowned art historian and curator, focuses on both the aesthetic and functional aspects of clothing. Her study also explores the social, cultural, and economic influences that have shaped fashion trends over time.

This is a large, lavishly illustrated book is in excellent condition. The Dust cover has a small rip on the back cover. We pasted a book plate on the first sheet, but it is otherwise in fine condition. This book is in French. The dimensions are approximately 25.5 x 4 x 28.7 cm 9782080101570.

I'm asking $70.

Illuminated Masterpieces

J. Paul Getty Museum. Chefs-d'oeuvre du J. Paul Getty Museum. J. Paul Getty Museum, 1997.

Chefs-d'oeuvre du J. Paul Getty Museum is a beautifully curated collection of some of the most important and iconic pieces housed in the J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles. Published by the museum itself, this volume provides a comprehensive overview of its diverse art collections, ranging from classical antiquities to medieval manuscripts, and from Renaissance paintings to modern photography. The book showcases the museum's masterpieces, offering readers a glimpse into the breadth of its holdings and the artistic achievements from different periods and cultures.

Each artwork is accompanied by detailed descriptions, highlighting the historical and cultural context of the pieces, as well as expert commentary on the techniques and artistry involved. The book includes high-quality reproductions, allowing readers to appreciate the intricacies and beauty of works by renowned artists such as Titian, Rembrandt, and Van Gogh, alongside exquisite decorative art objects and sculptures. This book serves not only as a visual feast but also as an educational resource for art enthusiasts and scholars alike, offering a deeper understanding of the artistic treasures within the Getty Museum's collection.

Text is in French. Used - Soft Cover, Excellent condition. ISBN 0-89236-449-1.

Asking $55.

Dressing in the Middle Ages

Mane, Perrine, and Françoise Piponnier. Se vêtir au Moyen Âge. Adam Biro, 1995. 

This book is an authoritative exploration of medieval clothing and fashion, focusing on how dress evolved from the 10th to the 15th century in Europe. This book delves into the social, economic, and cultural influences that shaped medieval attire, examining how clothing was not only a reflection of one’s status but also a means of expressing identity, regional affiliations, and even moral standing. The authors utilize a wide range of historical sources, including manuscript illuminations, literary texts, and archaeological finds, to offer readers a richly detailed account of what people wore during the Middle Ages.

The book is structured around key aspects of medieval dress, including fabrics, colors, styles, and the societal rules that dictated who could wear what. It offers insights into the craftsmanship involved in textile production and the trade networks that supplied the materials for medieval garments. Lavishly illustrated with reproductions of medieval art and artifacts, Se vêtir au Moyen Âge brings to life the everyday and ceremonial attire of peasants, nobles, and clergy alike, providing a fascinating look at the role of fashion in medieval society.

This work is an invaluable resource for historians, costume designers, and anyone interested in the material culture of the Middle Ages, combining scholarly rigor with accessible prose to make the complex world of medieval fashion understandable and engaging.

This book is written in French. Used - Soft Cover,  Good->Excellent Condition, Back cover has 1 bend. ISBN 2-87660-169-9. 

Asking $55.

Living in the Middle Ages

Poirion, Daniel, and Claude Thomasset. L'art de Vivre au Moyen Âge: Codex Vindobonensis Serie Nova 2644, conservé à la Bibliothèque Nationale d'Autriche. Philippe Lebaud, 1995.

This is a detailed facsimile reproduction of the Tacuinum Sanitatis, a medieval health handbook. The Tacuinum, originating from Arabic medical traditions, is a collection of concise precepts focused on maintaining good health through the proper use of plants, foods, and daily activities. What makes this particular version unique is the beautifully illustrated depictions of medieval life, providing a vivid representation of everyday activities in Northern Italy during the late Middle Ages.

The book features over 200 full-page color illustrations that showcase how medieval people lived, worked, and took care of their health. It offers insights into domestic life, personal hygiene, diet, and even clothing styles, presenting an immersive look at how individuals sought harmony between the natural world and their own well-being. This facsimile edition is based on a manuscript conserved at the Austrian National Library, making it a valuable resource for those interested in medieval history, art, and the intersection of medicine and daily life​.

This book is written in French. Hard Cover w/ Dust Cover, Box with scuffing to bottom of box. We pasted a bookplate on the inside of the cover, but it is otherwise in fine condition. The book is 13.78 x 9.06 x 1.42 in. 2866452062.

Asking $60. (Will split shipping costs with you as this is a really heavy book)

From the Invasions to Pépin the Short

Castelot, André, and Alain Decaux. Des Invasions à Pépin le Bref. Robert Laffont, 1992. 

Des Invasions à Pépin le Bref is a detailed historical account that covers the crucial period in European history from the time of the barbarian invasions to the reign of Pépin the Short, the first king of the Carolingian dynasty. The book explores the political, military, and cultural transformations that occurred as Europe transitioned from the late Roman Empire to the early medieval period. Castelot and Decaux provide in-depth profiles of key figures and events that shaped the rise of the Frankish kingdom, laying the groundwork for the Carolingian Empire under Pépin’s son, Charlemagne.

The authors delve into the various invasions by tribes such as the Visigoths, Vandals, and Lombards, and their impact on the former Roman territories. The narrative also highlights the consolidation of power by the Merovingians and the eventual rise of Pépin, who played a crucial role in reforming the Frankish kingdom and establishing the foundations for the Carolingian dynasty. This richly detailed work combines historical analysis with vivid storytelling, making it an engaging read for those interested in early medieval European history.

This book is an excellent resource for students, scholars, and history enthusiasts seeking to understand the complexities of the early Middle Ages and the pivotal role played by Pépin the Short in shaping the future of European monarchies.

Written in French. Used - Hard Cover Larger Format. We pasted a bookplate on the first sheet, but it is otherwise in Good->Excellent condition. ISBN 9782221505229.

Asking $40

The next book in the series: Les Premiers Capétiens: 987-1137 is also available for $11. Asking $50 for the pair. 

Early Period Textiles & Costuming

Roche-Bernard, Geneviève. Costumes et Textiles en Gaule Romaine. Éditions Errance, 1993.

Costumes et Textiles en Gaule Romaine is an in-depth exploration of the clothing and textile industry in Roman Gaul. Written in French, this detailed study examines various aspects of fiber production, dyeing techniques, weaving styles, and the construction of garments during the Roman period. It also provides a thorough analysis of how clothing was commercialized, tracing its journey from production to market. Roche-Bernard supports her research with meticulous notes on her sources, making it a highly reliable reference for scholars interested in the history of ancient textiles.

Although the book is in French, readers can easily translate it using tools like Google Translate to access the rich content. This volume, now out of print and difficult to find, remains a valuable resource for those studying ancient costume and textile production. The book is in immaculate condition, with only a bookplate inside the front cover. Its comprehensive coverage of Gallic textiles, supported by rich iconography and extensive historical research, makes it essential for those interested in the craftsmanship and commercial practices of the time.

This book is in excellent condition. It has a bookplate inside the front cover. ISBN:  978-2877720793 / 2877720799. Asking $200.

Merovingian Treasures

Fleury, Michel, and Albert France-Lanord. Les Trésors Mérovingiens de la Basilique de Saint-Denis. Gérard Klopp, 1998.

     

Edition #535

Les Trésors Mérovingiens de la Basilique de Saint-Denis by Michel Fleury and Albert France-Lanord is an in-depth exploration of the archaeological discoveries from the Merovingian necropolis beneath the Basilica of Saint-Denis, a site regarded as one of the most significant in European archaeology. Published in 1998, this comprehensive work spans 572 pages and contains over 400 illustrations, offering a detailed account of the tombs of high-ranking individuals, particularly women of the Merovingian royal court. Among the most notable finds is the tomb of Queen Arégonde, wife of Clotaire I, which remarkably preserved both precious jewelry and embroidered silk garments. The preservation of these artefacts is attributed to the protection offered by the tombs from rainwater, providing a unique glimpse into Merovingian burial customs and material culture.

The volume is richly illustrated and meticulously documents the excavation process, along with the artefacts' historical and cultural significance. It includes everything from sarcophagi to silk textiles and jewelry, offering an essential reference for scholars of Merovingian art, history, and archaeology. This publication stands as a foundational text in the study of early medieval European archaeology, providing detailed analysis that contextualizes the discoveries and highlights the exquisite craftsmanship of the period.

This large-format book (9.65” x 13.39”), weighing 4.4 kg (9.7 lbs), is in excellent->mint condition and comes with a slipcover box. Ideal for Early Period reenactors and scholars, the book is filled with remarkable drawings, photos, and recreations from the 90 archaeological sites beneath St. Denis. Written in French, it covers burial details, including artifact positioning, weaving techniques, and X-ray analyses of jewelry and adornments. A highlight of the book is the inclusion of Queen Arégonde’s artifacts, along with thorough analyses of fibers, leathers, metals, and dyes from the burial sites. This volume is an indispensable resource for understanding the early Northern European peoples and their cultural heritage.

Asking $270. (I will split shipping costs 50% given the weight of this book.)