1614-15 Early King James Bible with Metalwork

The Bible: Containing the Old Testament and the New: Newly translated out of the Original Tongues: and with the former Translations diligently compared and revised, by his Majesties Speciall commandement.

Description

The Book of Common Prayer lacking the title. The Genealogies with printed title page by J[ohn] S[peed], complete without map. The general title page (1614) inserted at the front and engraved within woodcut border comprising twenty-four compartments showing the tents of the twelve tribes as well as the figures of the twelve apostles. Title is enclosed within a heart-shaped frame. Text in two column black letter. Both titles omit the words “appointed to be…” and the general title reads “the Bible” instead of “the Holy Bible.” Ruth 3:15 with “she went…” Apocrypha included as issued. New Testament title page in facsimile. Concludes with colophon (1615) and tailpiece. Bound with Two Right Profitable and Fruitful Concordances with printed title page. Various woodcut first chapter initials and head- and tailpieces.

Collation

A^8, A-Z^8, Aa-Zz^8, Aaa-Sss^8. Lacks New Testament title page, supplied in facsimile.

Binding

Rebacked in lighter brown calf over beveled oak boars. Covers elaborately paneled in blind with seven (of eight) corner pieces. Evidence of clasps. Endpapers renewed.  

Condition

General title page soiled with upper marginal repair and writing to verso; Genealogies soiled; Dedication misbound before BCP; A2 fore-edge strengthened; A1 of BCP in facsimile; A1 (Gen1 ) soiled with loss; Oo8 small stain in gutter; NT title in facs; Iii7,8 repaired closed tear.

Provenance

“John Gotham his Booke anno dom: 1684” below colophon; Uu5 early marginalia in 18th century hand.

References

Herbert 339.