New Testament (Statenvertaling) - Pocket Bible with Clasp - Haarlem 1885

Antique Dutch pocket Bible from 1885, bound in leather with a decorative metal clasp.

This compact edition of the New Testament was printed by J.F. Haeseker & Co. in Haarlem, a well-known Dutch publisher of religious works in the 19th century. The text follows the classic Statenvertaling (States Translation), based on the translation established during the Synod of Dordrecht (1618–1619).

The book is bound in leather with blind-tooled decoration and a characteristic engraved metal clasp. The clasp is richly adorned with fine engravings and still functions properly. This type of clasp was often used for personal devotional books and pocket Bibles.

The pages feature a gilt edge (gold-edged), a detail that provided both protection against dust and a more luxurious appearance. Due to its compact size, this type of Bible was often used as a personal prayer book or carried during travels.

The interior is largely well-preserved. There are a few loose pages at the back, but the book block is otherwise sturdy and complete.

A special piece of religious printed matter that is both historically interesting and visually striking in an interior or book collection.

Specifications

• Title: The New Testament

• Year: 1885

• Publisher: J.F. Haeseker & Co. (Haarlem)

• Language: Dutch

• Binding: Leather binding with blind tooling

• Clasp: Engraved metal clasp (functional)

• Edge: Gilt (gold-edged)

• Height: approx. 11.5 cm

• Thickness: approx. 4 cm

• Condition: Antique condition with signs of use; some loose pages at the back