Description
[THE HOLY BIBLE] Cambridge: John Field, 1659 KJV. Folio, 17.25″ x 11.25″. Wanting the engraved general title and coat of arms, and blank y4, else collates complete (see ESTC R36589.) Bound in full period marbled calf.
RED RULED – For a small percentage of Bibles, the borders and important parts of the text would be marked using a straightedge and red ink. Each page would be outlined by a scribe after printing, which was a very detail oriented and time-consuming practice. Red-ruling makes the text stand out, easier to read, and was a practice used by the very wealthy of the time.
The 1659 Pulpit Field Bible, issued in celebration of the Restoration of Charles II, is a significant historical artifact. Although it is missing the engraved general title and coat of arms, as well as blank y4, it is otherwise complete and intact. This particular edition was published by John Field in Cambridge, 1659.
The Bible is bound in a full period marbled calf cover, which adds to its overall appeal and authenticity. The craftsmanship of the binding is evident, showcasing the attention to detail and quality that was characteristic of the time. Due to the age it is rubbed, scuffed and chipped with an old glue or wax repair to spine (presumably strengthening the text-block).
It is important to note that this edition of the Bible is known for its association with the Restoration of Charles II. The Restoration was a significant event in English history, marking the return of the monarchy after the period of Commonwealth under Oliver Cromwell.
The 1659 Field Bible is a large volume, measuring approximately 17.25 inches in height and 11.25 inches in width. Its size is notable, and Samuel Pepys, a famous diarist of the time, once remarked, “There come… the bookbinder, with one of Ogilby’s Bibles in quires for me to see and buy… but it is like to be so big that I shall not use it.”
Herbert 666 is the reference number associated with this edition of the Bible. While it is worth mentioning that the 1659 Field Bible was later reissued the following year with plates by Ogilby, the text remains largely the same in both editions.
This 1659 Field Bible holds historical and cultural significance, representing a time of restoration and change in England. Its size, craftsmanship, and association with Charles II make it a valuable addition to any collection or library.
Condition
Binding rubbed, scuffed and chipped, old glue or wax repair to spine (presumably strengthening the text-block), front board reattached with old stitching. Contents generally clean with but occasional faults throughout including: Approx. 3 leaves with old tape repairs to long tears (one with slight loss), approx. 5 leaves with chips causing some slight loss of text (some repaired in old paper), approx. 12 leaves with marginal old paper repairs, several leaves of prelims and approx. 9 leaves from Proverbs with edges tattered and chipped (NT title similarly chipped and with old paper repair to verso), some toning and staining (mostly to Psalms), occasional marginal chips or tears. Sold as-is, please see all photos for condition.
