Dutch Pocket Bible with Engraved Clasp – Gilt Edges – 1885 Haarlem

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 States Translation (Statenvertaling), based on the translation established during the Synod of Dort (1618–1619).

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

The pages feature a gilded edge (gilt-edged), a detail that offered 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 printmaking that is both historically interesting and highly decorative in an interior or book collection.

Specifications

• Title: The New Testament

• Year: 1885

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

• Language: Dutch

• Binding: Leather with blind tooling

• Clasp: Engraved metal clasp (working)

• Edge: Gilded (gilt-edged)

• Height: approx. 11.5 cm

• Thickness: approx. 4 cm

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