Illustrated Holy Bible with Notes and Observations by The Reverend John Brown

5B Victorian Family Bible printed in London, 1889. 

Notes

The Illustrated Holy Bible with Notes and Observations by the Reverend John Brown was a widely respected edition of the Bible in the 19th century. John Brown, a Scottish theologian, was known for his accessible commentary and practical application of scripture, making his annotated Bible particularly appealing to devout families seeking both spiritual insight and daily guidance. This edition features extensive marginal notes, explanatory essays, and cross-references designed to deepen readers’ understanding of the text. Lavishly illustrated with engravings depicting biblical scenes and figures, it combined religious instruction with visual storytelling. Often produced in large, ornate volumes, it was a fixture in many Victorian homes and served both as a devotional text and a family treasure.

Victorian family Bibles were more than just religious texts; they were cherished heirlooms and central fixtures in many 19th-century British and American homes. Typically large, ornate volumes bound in leather with gilt edges, these Bibles often included illustrated plates, detailed maps, and supplementary material like concordances and commentary. A unique feature was the inclusion of family record pages, where births, marriages, and deaths were meticulously inscribed, effectively turning the Bible into a family archive. Passed down through generations, these Bibles symbolized both religious devotion and familial continuity, reflecting the era's emphasis on morality, legacy, and domestic values.

Description

Brown leather embossed boards with all edges gilt. Numerous engravings both in color and in black and white throughout. Rubbing to the extremities and general scuffling to exterior. Fine condition overall.