1900s - Antique French Religious Holy Card - Engraving of Virgin Mary and Infant Jesus - Devotional Art - Christian Collectible

This exquisite French religious holy card from the 1900s features a detailed engraving depicting the Virgin Mary holding the Infant Jesus aloft. The central image is framed by text in French, 'Seule hostie digne d'être offerte à Dieu' (Only host worthy of being offered to God) on the left arch and 'Seules mains dignes de l'élever vers Lui' (Only hands worthy of raising Him to Him) on the right.

The bottom of the card includes the publisher information: 'Bouasse-Lebel Imp. Editeur. 2095. Paris. 28 et 29, rue St Sulpice.' It also states 'L'Élévation Perpétuelle. Marie élève sans cesse entre le Ciel et la Terre l'hostie de propitiation.' (The Perpetual Elevation. Mary incessantly raises between Heaven and Earth the host of propitiation.)

The reverse side presents a heartfelt prayer in French, titled 'Sub tuum præsidium!' (Under your protection!). This prayer appeals to the 'sainte Mère de Dieu' (holy Mother of God) for protection and deliverance from dangers, emphasizing 'prières sincères et ferventes' (sincere and fervent prayers) and the constant struggle between good and evil. It concludes with a plea for a holy life to join the 'céleste Jérusalem' (celestial Jerusalem), signed by Bouasse-Lebel, 29, rue Saint-Sulpice, Paris.