The New Testament (Black Leather)
Published by The British And Foreign Bible Society: London 1927
Includes Bonus Copy of The New Testament with Suede Covers (No title page c1915)
"A charming and highly portable pair of early 20th century New Testament editions, led by a finely bound 1927 British and Foreign Bible Society publication printed at the Cambridge University Press. Bound in black grained leather with gilt titling to the upper board and spine, the volume was produced in the desirable "Ruby 48mo" pocket format, intended for personal devotion and travel use. The title page retains the BFBS crest and full publication details: The New Testament of Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, translated from the original Greek and appointed to be read in churches. Compact religious editions of this kind were widely carried by clergy, soldiers, travellers and ordinary worshippers throughout the late Victorian and interwar periods, and remain evocative survivals of everyday Christian life.
Accompanying the principal volume is an appealing bonus copy of The New Testament in soft suede-style covers, likely dating to around 1915 and retaining a warm period character. Although lacking its title page, the companion volume includes an inscription dated 22/11/15 together with an attractive devotional colour plate opposite the opening of St. Matthew. The smaller format, rounded corners and tactile suede binding give the second book a particularly intimate presentation, characteristic of presentation or keepsake Bibles of the Edwardian and First World War era. Together, the pair present beautifully as a miniature devotional grouping with strong visual and historical appeal.
Condition is good overall for age, with general handling wear, rubbing and light marking to bindings as shown. The black leather 1927 edition remains structurally sound with clear gilt titling, while the suede-covered companion displays age-related wear and lacks its title page. Internally, both volumes appear clean and well preserved with pleasing period typography and compact layouts. A thoughtful and attractive set likely to appeal to collectors of antique and vintage Bibles, miniature books, religious ephemera, and early 20th century devotional publishing."
Light wear and fading to covers and spine as shown. Small inscriptions in both. Pages are clean and well presented. Binding is solid with no loose pages. Brown suede bible lacks title page as shown. A lovely pair of new testament mini bibles in good condition overall. Please study photos to further understand condition.
