1860 Rare Book bound by Bagster - Polyglot Bible, Old and New Testaments. Clasp
Author: The Holy Bible.
Title: The English Version of the Polyglott Bible; Containing the Old and New Testaments, with a Copious and Original Selection of References to Parallel and Illustrative Passages.
Publisher: London, Samuel Bagster & Sons, Paternoster Row, 1860.
Language: Text in English, with references to multiple ancient and modern language versions.
Size: 6 x 4 inches.
Pages: Complete.
Binding: Attractive and very good binding, finely bound in richly tooled brown morocco, covers elaborately panelled in blind with ornate gilt corner-pieces and decorative brass clasps; spine with raised bands, gilt-lettered title, and decorative compartments (hinges fine, overall slightly worn and scuffed - as shown) under a protective removable mylar cover. All edges gilt.
Content: Near fine content (bright, tight and clean, manuscript gift inscription on second blank page dated February 29th, 1864 - as shown). An attractive and well-preserved exquisite example.
Illustrations: Includes engraved title vignettes and several finely printed maps of biblical lands and regions, all present and well preserved.
Estimate: (USD 400–500).
The book: This elegant Bagster Polyglott Bible represents one of the most ambitious 19th-century efforts to present the Scriptures alongside an extensive network of parallel references drawn from numerous ancient and modern language editions. Designed as both a devotional and scholarly tool, it allowed readers to compare passages across traditions, offering a uniquely rich study experience. The compact format, combined with luxurious morocco binding, gilt edges, and working clasps, reflects the Victorian taste for finely produced personal Bibles intended for lifelong use and cherished family transmission.
The publisher: Samuel Bagster & Sons of London were among the most respected Bible publishers of the 19th century, renowned for their scholarly editions, polyglot texts, and beautifully produced devotional volumes. Their publications often balanced rigorous textual utility with refined craftsmanship, making them highly desirable to both theologians and collectors.