Lot 638
"The Holy Bible", 1634. London, 1634. Printed by Robert Barker/John Bill. Octavo (4¼ x 6½"). Fully engraved title pages to both testaments, bound in red calf with gilt accents and edge (18th century?), front and rear covers are detached, front and rear endpapers inscribed in brown ink -- a writing excercise and text "Thomas Jefferson -- it is certainly his book therefore in it he ought to Look…" on the front and "Thomas Jefferson His Book: October 18:1773", discoloration at top right corner of first several pages primarily affects margins, minor toning, one dime size hole affects a page of Hebrews, pages likely trimmed somewhat. No Apochrypha. The illustrations are all outstanding. Good condition.
For centuries, the King James Bible was the common source for Christian faithful, in large part because it was made availible to all people. Although early editions of the translation were printed in a large format intended for churches and the wealthy, by the early 1600s the text was becoming more available to the common man (those that could read and afford books at any rate) who thirsted for spiritual inspiration and instruction outside the formal settings of a church -- the small text offered here is an early part of that revolution.
As to the intriguing inscriptions on the front and rear endpapers, we are fairly certain this Bible did not belong to THE Thomas Jefferson, but it does make an interesting conversation starter and the book surely did belong to A Thomas Jefferson. (We also would like to note that the inscription inside the rear cover is upside down…). A wonderful and important example of early popular bibles with the added attraction of an interesting inscription.
Estimated Value $500-UP.
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| Realized $374 |
