Royally Bound Book of Common Prayer, 1715

5B Book of Common Prayer and Administration of the Sacraments and other Rites and Ceremonies of the Church According to the use of the Church of England together with the Psalter of Psalms of David Pointed as they are to be sung or said in Churches and the Form or Manner of Making, Ordaining, and Consecrating of Bishops, Priests, and Deacons, London; John Baskett. Printer to the Kings most excellent majesty and by the assigns of Thomas Newcomb, and Henry Hills, 1715.

Notes

The 1715 Book of Common Prayer, associated with King George I and bound in the royal binding, is a significant artifact reflecting the religious, political, and artistic heritage of early 18th-century England. This edition adhered to the Church of England’s standardized liturgy, including prayers, sacraments, rites, the Psalms, and the ordination services for bishops, priests, and deacons. It served as a cornerstone of Anglican worship, emphasizing the unity of the church under the Crown during a time of religious and political consolidation.

Only a small number of these large-format editions were printed and bound in the luxurious royal style, often reserved for ceremonial use in royal chapels, cathedrals, or by high-ranking clergy. These volumes were meticulously crafted with fine leather bindings, gold tooling, and adorned with royal insignia, reflecting the monarchy’s close association with the Church of England. The opulence of these books symbolized the authority and prestige of both the Crown and the church.

This edition is important not only for its religious and ceremonial role but also as a cultural artifact. It represents the craftsmanship of bookbinding and the Crown’s effort to reinforce Anglican orthodoxy during a period of political stability. Surviving examples are rare and provide valuable insights into the intersection of faith, monarchy, and artistry in early 18th-century England.

Description

Fine brown leather binding with ornate gilt detailing along the edges of the front and back boards with a gilt royal insignia embossed in the center of the front and back boards. Seven raised bands with gilt details of the royal crown and the Kings initials in each compartment. Marbled endpapers. Red ruling and woodcut images throughout. Scuffing to the front and back boards. Wear to the hinges and cracking to leather around the hinges as well as the raised bands and upper and lower section of the spine. Chipping to upper and lower spine. Bumping to the edges. Tearing to the marbled paper in the lower left corner of the interior front board. Several torn leafs with unsophisticated repairs done. Very exceptionally tall large paper copy for this early date. Very fine condition.