"AN EDITION OF THE SACRED VOLUME SUFFICIENTLY HIGH IN THE STYLE OF ITS EMBELLISHMENTS": THE IMPERIAL FAMILY BIBLE, WITH 72 ENGRAVED FOLIO PLATES, HANDSOMELY BOUND

BIBLE. The Imperial Family Bible. London: Blackie and Son, 1858. Thick folio (12 by 15 by 4 inches), original full black pebbled morocco, elaborately gilt-decorated spine and boards, raised bands, all edges gilt. $2500.

Early edition of this impressive, illustrated King James Bible, with engraved vignette title pages for the Old and New Testaments and 72 folio plates, most of which depict dramatic moments in Scripture after renowned paintings by Old Masters. Beautifully bound in full morocco-gilt by G. Haggis of London.

The King James Version of the Bible (first published 1611) has exercised an incalculable impact on piety, language and literature throughout the English-speaking world. Macaulay praised it as "a book, which if everything else in our language should perish, would alone suffice to show the whole extent of its beauty and power" (PMM 114). The Imperial Family Bible illustrates the majestic King James text with 72 engraved plates, many depicting scenes from the Bible after Old Masters, as well as views of Biblical cities and landscapes made by 19th-century travelers. The Imperial Family Bible first appeared in 1844. With engraved vignette title pages for the Old and New Testaments, and family Register (blank).

Occasional foxing; minor expert leather restoration at spine ends. An impressive folio illustrated Bible, beautifully bound, in about-fine condition.