A valuable Bible from the 1600s – which resembles a work of art – has been uncovered in a house on the Isle of Wight.
The 17th century Holy book has been enhanced by a handmade decorative cover demonstrating the centuries-old craft of stumpwork embroidery – and it could sell for thousands of pounds at auction.
Stumpwork, or raised embroidery, was a skill practised by wealthy women. It was popular in England between 1650 and 1700. The example made to protect the Bible depicts floral motifs, pink silk endpapers and gilt edges. It’s likely to have been the work of ‘Frances Spencer’, a name inscribed in the book.
As well as standing out due to its unique cover, the Charles I Holy Bible and Psalter is unusual because it comprises only the Book of Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Solomon, according to Hansons Auctioneers’ books expert Jim Spencer. The publisher is recorded as ‘London: Robert Barker, 1632’. It is bound with The Whole Booke of Psalmes, London: Company of Stationers, 1635.
Despite being nearly 400 years old, the Bible is in good condition internally. It is due to be offered by Hansons Auctioneers with an estimate of £2,000-£3,000 in its autumn sales.
Charles Hanson, owner of Hansons, said: “This pocket Bible was clearly treasured by its original owner. That’s demonstrated by the beauty and brilliance of the stumpwork which provides a three-dimensional effect. It’s a work of art in itself. It was discovered in a house on the Isle of Wight among a wealth of treasures amassed by a former antiques shop owner.
“Though the Bible dates back to 1632, we think the sleeve may have been made by Frances around 1660. Centuries ago, needlework was an essential skill. Girls learned to sew from an early age to make clothes and linen. However, women from wealthy families learned the genteel art of embroidery.”
Stumpwork scenes often contain a castle, stag, lion, birds, butterflies, fruit, flowers, and figures sometimes positioned beneath a canopy. The kings and queens of the Stuart period were often depicted as were biblical or mythical stories.
The Bible set for auction was printed when Charles I was King of England, Scotland, and Ireland. He reigned from March 27, 1625 until his execution in 1649. He was born into the House of Stuart as the second son of King James VI of Scotland, but after his father inherited the English throne in 1603, he moved to England.
Charles said: “Charles’s actions frustrated Parliament and resulted in the English Civil War which ultimately led to his execution in 1649. Consequently, this Bible may have provided solace at a time of civil war. It appears to have been lovingly cared for. It’s a beautiful collector’s item and deserves to excel at auction.”
To arrange a free books or works on paper valuation, please email Jim Spencer: [email protected]
