Late 19th - Antique Holy Face Prayer Card - Religious Bookmark with Latin Inscription - Devotional Art from Paris, France

This devotional prayer card, dating from the Late 19th century, features a striking image of the Holy Face of Jesus Christ on its obverse. The central illustration, framed by a cross and a crown of thorns, depicts Christ's serene face with closed eyes, surrounded by elaborate gold and floral ornamentation. Below, a cartouche contains the Latin phrase 'Ostende Faciem Tuam Et Salvi Erimus,' which translates to 'Show Thy Face, and we shall be saved.' The bottom edge indicates 'L. Boulet, Paris' as the publisher, alongside 'Déposé' (Registered) and 'Série A. N° 615.'

The reverse displays a comprehensive French prayer, 'Prières à la Sainte Face' (Prayer to the Holy Face), starting with 'Que Jésus soit béni!' (May Jesus be blessed!). This supplication blesses the Holy Face through various divine attributes and sacred moments, from celestial majesty to the Passion and Resurrection. It includes an official 'Permis d'imprimer: X. Deloque, vicaire général' (Permission to print: X. Deloque, Vicar General), dated 'Namur, 28 octobre 1885,' and references the Archconfraternity of the Holy Face dedicated to reparation.