Polyglot Bible with Book of Common Prayer 1840

5B Polyglot Bible and Book of Common Prayer. London: Samuel Bagster 1840.

Notes

The Book of Common Prayer, first published in 1549 and revised over the centuries, is the official liturgical text of the Church of England and has shaped Anglican worship for generations. Compiled primarily by Thomas Cranmer, it was designed to provide a unified and accessible structure for public and private worship, offering prayers, services, and rites for every stage of life—including daily prayers, Holy Communion, baptism, marriage, and burial. Written in elegant, memorable English, the Book of Common Prayer not only guided religious practice but also deeply influenced the English language and devotional life. Its enduring presence in many early printed Bibles speaks to its central role in shaping faith and worship across the English-speaking world.

In the 1800s, the Book of Common Prayer remained a central fixture of Anglican life, continuing to be printed widely alongside the Bible in both pulpit and personal editions. These 19th-century printings often reflected the aesthetics and religious culture of the Victorian era—frequently bound in fine leather, gilt-edged, and sometimes personalized for family use or ceremonial occasions. Though the core text stayed largely consistent with earlier versions, periodic updates were made to reflect liturgical refinements and shifts in church practice, especially in editions authorized by the Church of England.

Description

Black Morocco with gilt lettering to spine. Decorated in blind stamping with silver corner pieces and silver clasp. Clasp engraved with “Presented to J. Colthrust April 22nd 1840”. Gothic tracery patter. Gilt edges and turn ins. Slight rubbing to edges. Multiple maps throughout. Fine condition overall.