Late 19th - 4 Antique French Holy Cards - Devotional Imagery Collection - Sacred Heart - Lourdes Grotto - Marian Scenes

This collection presents four beautiful antique French religious cards, likely dating from the Late 19th century, each depicting a significant aspect of Catholic devotion. The first card features the Sacred Heart of Jesus, radiating light and compassion, framed by elegant floral and grapevines. It bears the inscription, 'Sacré Cœur de Jésus - Ayez pitié de nous,' which translates to 'Sacred Heart of Jesus - Have mercy on us.'

Another card illustrates the revered Grotto of Lourdes, with pilgrims gathered before the statue of the Virgin Mary, and the basilica visible in the background. This card is a classic souvenir from the Marian shrine.

Two additional cards highlight Marian devotion. One depicts the Virgin Mary holding the Infant Jesus, with another child kneeling to offer flowers, under the gaze of cherubic angels. It includes the prayer 'Prions le Divin Enfant Jesus afin qu'il nous fasse des cœurs doux et obéissants' or 'Let us pray to the Divine Infant Jesus so that he may make our hearts gentle and obedient.' The final card shows Mary presenting a scapular to a kneeling child, accompanied by the inscription 'Quiconque est marqué du caractère de Marie, sera inscrit au livre de vie,' meaning 'Whoever is marked with the character of Mary, will be inscribed in the book of life,' along with a heartfelt handwritten message on the reverse.