Perfect for collectors of religious ephemera, antique textiles, and Catholic history. Excellent antique condition. Minor age-related toning consistent with a 19th-century paper item. The intricate lace border remains remarkably intact. Please review photos for close-up details—standard antique pocket holy card sizing (approximately 3 x 4.5 inches).
Here is the transcription and full English translation of the French text printed and written on the back of the card:
Printed Text (A Devotional Dialogue)
The text is structured as a question to Jesus, followed by His response.
LES CARESSES DU BON PASTEUR.
— Que faut-il faire, mon Jésus, pour avoir le bonheur de recevoir de vous ces faveurs insignes?
— Je donne mes grâces à qui il me plaît de les donner; mais, de préférence, je choisis l'âme simple, humble et pure; tandis que, pénétrée de son néant, elle n'ose même pas lever les yeux vers moi, je la préviens; mon cœur est heureux de l'aimer.
English Translation:
THE CARESSES OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD.
— What must be done, my Jesus, to have the happiness of receiving these remarkable favors from you?
— I give my graces to whom it pleases me to give them; but, by preference, I choose the simple, humble, and pure soul; while, deeply aware of its own nothingness, it does not even dare to raise its eyes toward me, I anticipate it [with my grace]; my heart is happy to love it.
Below the publisher's imprint, there is a personalized, cursive dedication written by hand:
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French: Sœur Louise à Marie
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English Translation: Sister Louise to Marie
Below the names, the faint pencil initials P.J.M. likely stand for Pour Jésus et Marie (For Jesus and Mary) or represent a specific religious order's acronym. This indicates the card was given as a personal gift or token of devotion between a Catholic nun and a loved one or student named Marie.
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