Maksymilian Studniarski, French Grammar [1865]

Format: 21 cm.

Volume: VI, [2], 272, 231 pp. (Part I: Etymology; Part II: Syntax).

Binding: Period half-leather, with embossing on the spine. The block is separated from the covers; the stitching of the sections requires reinforcement. The leather spine is cracked, with losses to the surface; the cardboard corners are worn and rounded.

Maksymilian Studniarski’s grammar is based on the Ploetz method, which was very widespread in the 19th century: students master grammar through practice, via translation exercises, rather than through theoretical lectures alone. It was published by Poznań bookseller Jan Konstanty Żupański, one of the most important publishers in Greater Poland at the time. The textbook consists of two parts: Etymology and Syntax.

Provenance: On the title page, there is a stamp reading “C.K. Library of the Gymnasium in Wadowice” and a handwritten inscription “L. 189. B.P.VII.”, as well as a stamp reading “M. Wadowita State Gymnasium in Wadowice. School Library. Section XIV. No. I. 17.” Karol Wojtyła graduated from this gymnasium in 1938. Both stamps are crossed out, indicating formal withdrawal from the library.

Book requiring complete bookbinding restoration: coming loose from the binding, stitching loosened, foxing on the pages. Binding in fair condition; spine cracked, corners worn.

An item from the 19th Polish Antiquarian Book Auction.