LA VIE DE MA DAME SAINCTE MARGUERITE VIERGE ET MARTYRE, AVEC SON ORAISON

[Paris: René Muffat, 1861]. 152 x 102 mm. (6 x 4"). [9] leaves.
Simple 19th century half morocco over marbled paper boards, flat spine with titling in gilt along length, marbled endpapers. Woodcut title page (laid down) with architectural border and printer's device, small woodcut illustration of the saint. Verso of front endpaper with inscription in French noting that this is a reproduction. ◆Extremities a bit rubbed and flaked, last leaf torn at foot with skillful early paper repair (no loss), title page slightly trimmed at head and backed, using 17th century paper, leaves slightly toned and soiled, one passage lined in margin in blue, otherwise the binding completely sound, and internally in excellent condition.

This little devotional work retells the story of Saint Margaret, "virgin and martyr," one of the most popular of female saints. She was said to be a Christian maiden of Antioch, tortured when she refused to renounce her religion or her chastity. When the devil took the form of a dragon and swallowed her, she burst triumphant from his side. Women in childbirth prayed to Saint Margaret to help their child to be delivered with the ease with which Margaret was delivered from the belly of the dragon. The prayer in French here asks specifically for comfort in the pains of childbirth and that Margaret make the supplicants' "child come out healthy and safe." This is followed by a more general prayer for mercy addressed to God..