Key Condition Notes: - There are a couple of loose pages and some separation on some other pages and the binding - The Front and Back boards feel loose when they open and the leather has some gaps in the binding and can see the outer hinge - There are some inserts and some markings - There is a page, cover page that has some separation with the spine and is loose, I added a picture **Rare Antique 1872 Thomas Kelly Catholic Family Holy Bible – Ornate Embossed Leather Douay-Rheims Edition with Challoner Annotations & Catholic Dictionary** **THE HOLY BIBLE** **Containing the Old and New Testaments** **According to the Douay and Rheimish Versions** **With Annotations by the Rev. Dr. Challoner** **Thomas Kelly, Publisher, New York, 1872** **Including A Catholic Dictionary of the Holy Bible** This is a magnificent, large-format 19th-century Catholic family Bible published by Thomas Kelly of New York in 1872. It features the classic Douay-Rheims translation with Rev. Dr. Challoner's renowned annotations, making it a comprehensive resource for Catholic study and devotion. The volume also includes an extensive *Catholic Dictionary of the Holy Bible* adapted from the works of Dom Augustin Calmet, illustrated with hundreds of fine engravings. The striking black leather binding is richly embossed with intricate Victorian floral, geometric, and architectural motifs surrounding a prominent raised central cross with ornate detailing. The name **"John Christie"** is embossed below the cross on the front cover. Gold stamping and tooling accent the design, with "HOLY BIBLE" lettered on the spine. The thick page block has age-toned edges, and the book is filled with beautiful full-page engravings and illustrations typical of deluxe Kelly family Bibles of the period. **Key Features & Contents**: - Complete Douay-Rheims Old and New Testaments with extensive Challoner notes and references. - *Catholic Dictionary of the Holy Bible* with explanatory engravings. - Numerous detailed biblical illustrations and plates (including dramatic scenes like Joshua, St. John, etc.). - Approbations from Archbishops and Bishops. - Substantial folio-sized family Bible format — impressive for display or study. - **Dimensions** (taken from ruler photos): Approximately **12 inches tall × 9.5–10 inches wide × 3.5+ inches thick** (very heavy and substantial). **Condition** (strong antique survivor with honest wear and patina): The binding is solid with intact sewing and firmly attached boards, though the heavy weight shows some expected play. The ornate embossed leather cover retains deep, dramatic detailing and remains visually striking despite typical Victorian-era wear: surface cracking, scuffs, edge rubbing, corner bumps, and some leather loss/chipping along the spine and edges. Gold accents have faded on high points but the overall design is still bold and impressive. **Pages**: The pages exhibit the natural characteristics of a 150+ year-old family Bible — age-toned paper with some browning, occasional foxing or spotting, minor edge chips/tears, and possible folded corners. There may be small pressed items (flowers, clippings) or light historical markings left exactly as found, adding authentic personal and family history charm. All text and illustrations remain fully legible and complete. **Important Note on Inclusions and Markings** As is typical with antique family Bibles, there may be handwritten notes, underlining, or genealogical entries. Everything has been left exactly as discovered for the next owner to preserve any family connections. **Important Age & Condition Disclosures** Genuine 1872 antique — expect honest wear consistent with age and use. Photos show the exact item you will receive. The cover is ornate and historically impressive but not pristine. Binding is sound for display and careful handling. I have provided extensive photos showing all angles (covers, spine, title pages, interior pages, dictionary sections, ruler for size, and condition details). Please message me for any additional close-ups — happy to provide more for full transparency. **Returns Policy** 30-day returns accepted if not as described. Buyer pays return shipping. Item must be returned securely packaged in the same condition. Full refund upon inspection (original shipping not refunded). eBay Money Back Guarantee applies. **About Thomas Kelly Catholic Family Bibles** Thomas Kelly was a prominent New York publisher known for producing elegant, illustrated Catholic Bibles in the mid-to-late 19th century. These grand Victorian volumes were cherished as family heirlooms, combining beautiful bindings, sacred art, and scholarly aids like Challoner's notes and Calmet's dictionary. This 1872 edition is a wonderful example of Catholic religious publishing in America and a striking artifact of 19th-century faith and craftsmanship. Perfect for collectors of antique Catholic Bibles, Douay-Rheims editions, Victorian family Bibles, or as a beautiful historic display piece! **Shipping**: Free domestic USPS Media Mail (double-boxed with heavy padding and insurance). International shipping available — message for quote.