Holy Bible with Relievo Binding

5B Containing Old and New Testaments. Illustrated by Robert Dudley with adapted woodcuts selected from Raphael’s Pictures in the Vatican. London: Ward and Lock, 1862.

Notes

 The Holy Bible is one of the most influential texts in human history, shaping religious belief, moral philosophy, law, art, and literature for over two millennia. Comprising the Old Testament (shared with Judaism) and the New Testament(centered on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ), the Bible has been central to the development of Christianity, the world’s largest religion. Its translation into numerous languages—most notably the Latin Vulgate, the Gutenberg Bible, and the King James Version—made it increasingly accessible and helped fuel movements like the Reformation, the Enlightenment, and the spread of literacy. Beyond its religious significance, the Bible has played a key role in historical debates on human rights, law, governance, and social justice, deeply embedding itself in the cultural and ethical foundations of many societies around the world.

Raphael’s religious paintings in the Vatican, particularly those in the Stanze di Raffaello (Raphael Rooms), are masterpieces of High Renaissance art that blend theological depth with classical beauty. Commissioned by Pope Julius IIin the early 16th century, these frescoes—especially in the Room of the Segnatura—include works like The Disputation of the Holy Sacrament and The School of Athens, which reflect the harmony of faith and reason. Raphael’s skill in composition, use of perspective, and idealized human form brought biblical and theological themes to life with clarity and grace. These incredible works were used as the inspiration for the illustrations in this Bible, adapted by Robert Dudley. 

Description

Full calf relievo binding designed by Owen Jones. Pressed and carved intricate wheatsheaf lattice work and grapes on the spine and boards with lettering on spine and upper cover. Rubbing to the head of the spine and minor signs of repair to both hinges. Very fine condition overall.