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Up for sale is an exceptionally rare and collectible original French printed fabric swatch book titled "La
plus vieille histoire du monde" (The Oldest Story in the World), illustrated by renowned French artist
Françoise (Françoise Seignobosc), manufactured by Impressions Paul Dumas, and published by Le
Jardin des Modes in Paris.
This exquisite Art Deco textile sample book illustrates the Biblical Creation narrative (Genesis) in
sequential order across soft, screen-printed fabric pages with finished pinked (scalloped) edges.
Key Features & Page: Marked "La plus vieille histoire du monde mise en images pour Françoise pour Le Jardin
des Modes, A... PARIS . 11. RUE ST FLORENTIN".
Full Narrative Sequence: Features iconic naive/folk art style block illustrations and French scripture
text covering the creation day-by-day:
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Opening leaf depicting "LE BON DIEU" with halo and raised hands.
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Creation of Light & Darkness ("Ce fut le premier jour").
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Gathering of waters and land vegetation ("Le second jour" / "Le troisième jour").
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Sun, moon, and stars ("Le 4ème jour").
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Creation of animals (squirrels, cattle, deer, birds, sea creatures).
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Creation of mankind (Adam & Eve in the Garden).
Binding & Construction: Bound at the top with its original woven fabric header strip. Fabric leaves
feature intact pinked edges.
Condition: Very good antique/vintage condition. Fabric leaves are complete, clean, and structurally
sound. Screen-printed dyes (burgundy, olive green, teal, and ochre) remain bold and clear with light,
natural uniform aging on the cream ground fabric as expected for textiles of this era. Please see photos
for detailed condition.
