Description: Title 1897 Practical Palmistry Comte C. De Saint-Germain Palmistic Dictionary Vol. 1 & 2 Publisher Laird & Lee Publishers Date 1897 Condition •Dust Jacket: None, as issued. •Cover: Moderate wear consistent with age. Two small holes near the spine label area. A 1” split at the head of the spine. •Binding: Omnibus volume (Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 bound together in one tome). The endpapers were previously split and have been repaired with glue. •Text Block: Toning throughout, typical for its age. Light pencil marks of prior ownership on the front pastedown. No other marks, tears, or annotations to the text. •Additional Item: Includes a hand-drawn cutout of a palm with palmistry guidance, likely used as a bookmark. Description This is a first edition omnibus of The Practice of Palmistry for Professional Purposes by Comte C. de Saint-Germain, an authoritative and exhaustive two-volume work bound together in one volume. Published in 1897, the book is richly illustrated with over 1,100 original images, including diagrams, charts, and examples of palmistry. This tome is significant not only for its breadth of content but also as a detailed window into 19th-century attitudes toward and the systemization of palmistry as both a science and an art. The work includes contributions and influences from the celebrated French palmists Adolphe Desbarrolles and d’Arpentigny, cementing its place in the broader history of the occult sciences transitioning to “modern” practices. Historical Importance Comte C. de Saint-Germain, a prominent figure in the field of chiromancy, aimed to elevate palmistry from mysticism to a structured discipline. His work bridges the gap between occult studies and professional practice, offering a comprehensive approach to reading the hand that blends physiology, symbolism, and practical application. The book reflects the late Victorian fascination with the mystical and scientific, making it a historical artifact of intellectual curiosity during the period. The text notably rejects the “occult” label for palmistry, positioning it instead as a member of the “honored family of sciences.” This stance reflects the author’s intent to legitimize the field, making the book a cornerstone for both historians of esotericism and collectors of rare 19th-century scientific works. Preface Summary The preface highlights the genesis of the work from the author’s syndicated articles on palmistry and decades of teaching experience. Saint-Germain emphasizes the book’s clarity, logical classification, and thoroughness, distinguishing it from prior works. The author reflects on palmistry’s evolution from “occult science” to a structured discipline and notes its practical applications for both laypeople and professionals. The preface also discusses the methodology behind the book’s extensive illustrations, with each observation accompanied by its own visual representation for ease of learning. Unique Features •A hand-drawn cutout of a palm, annotated with palmistry guidance, is included with the book, likely used as a bookmark by a previous owner. This unique artifact enhances the book’s personal and historical appeal. •Extensive illustrations (over 1,100) provide visual clarity to complex concepts, making it a critical resource for both collectors and practitioners. •Signed copyright page (assumed printed as both are identical). •The book combines two volumes in one, making it an omnibus edition with complete content from both. Notes for Buyers This book will ship promptly and be packaged securely. There are no additional markings or tears to the text block, and it is free of prior annotations apart from the pencil ownership mark mentioned above. Specifications •Pages: 416 •Size: Omnibus edition, hardcover •Language: English •Place of Publication: Chicago, United States Final Thoughts A remarkable artifact from the golden age of spiritual exploration and intellectual curiosity, this signed omnibus is a significant addition to any bibliophile’s collection. Perfect for collectors of esoterica, historians, or practitioners of palmistry, it offers both content and historical depth unmatched in similar works. Does this meet your needs, or are there additional elements you’d like expanded upon?
Price: 1092.5 USD
Location: Petaluma, California
End Time: 2024-12-25T20:19:01.000Z
Shipping Cost: 6.13 USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
Restocking Fee: No
Return shipping will be paid by: Buyer
All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
Item must be returned within: 30 Days
Refund will be given as: Money Back
Binding: Hardcover
Place of Publication: Chicago
Signed: Yes
Publisher: Laird & Lee Publishers
Modified Item: No
Subject: Palminstry
Year Printed: 1897
Original/Facsimile: Original
Language: English
Special Attributes: 1st Edition, Illustrated, Limited Edition, Omnibus, Complete Volumes 1 & 2, Vol One And Two In One Tome
Author: Count C. De Saint Jermain
Topic: Palminstry
Country/Region of Manufacture: United States