Le Predicateur

Published by Jean Camusat, Paris, 1638

About this Item

Le Predicateur, printed in Paris in 1638 by Jean Camusat, is a seventeenth-century French treatise on the art and spiritual responsibilities of preaching within the Catholic Church. Written in the decades following the Counter-Reformation reforms of the Council of Trent, the work reflects the renewed emphasis placed on effective preaching, doctrinal clarity, and pastoral instruction. The author examines the moral character, education, and rhetorical methods required of clergy tasked with communicating scripture and doctrine to congregations, situating preaching as both a theological duty and a form of sacred eloquence. The text is organized into numerous thematic sections addressing the qualities of the ideal preacher, the role of scriptural authority, and the importance of sincerity and humility in religious discourse. Works such as this formed part of a broader seventeenth-century effort within Catholic Europe to strengthen pastoral teaching and intellectual discipline among clergy. This copy is further notable for its fine contemporary armorial binding and early ownership inscription referencing Sir Kenelm Digby (1603â "1665)â "the prominent English courtier, natural philosopher, and Catholic intellectualâ "enhancing the bookâ s interest to collectors of early modern religious history and provenance. Condition & Binding:ÂSmall octavo volume in contemporary full mottled calf with gilt armorial centerpiece to both boards, likely a seventeenth-century ownership binding. Covers show moderate rubbing and surface wear consistent with age, with gilt border decoration still visible. Spine gilt with raised bands and decorative tooling; titling partially worn but legible in places. Edges toned. Internally the text block remains sound, with moderate age toning and scattered foxing throughout. Early manuscript ownership inscription to the front endpaper referencing Kenelm Digby. Overall- very good.

Seller Inventory # 839

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Le Predicateur
• Publisher: Jean Camusat, Paris
• Publication Date: 1638
• Binding: Hardcover
• Seller catalogs:
  • History