Original leaf from the rare 1549 Matthew's Bible (STC 2077), edited by Edmund Becke and printed in London by John Day and William Seres.
An exceptionally attractive surviving title leaf introducing the Third Part of the Bible, containing the books from Psalms through Malachi.
The title reads:
The thyrd parte of the Byble contaynynge these bookes
followed by the complete list of the Old Testament wisdom books and prophets:
Surrounding the title are ten charming Tudor woodcut illustrations, depicting scenes from both the Old and New Testaments. These decorative title pages rank among the most visually engaging leaves produced in early English Bible printing and are eagerly sought by collectors.
Printed in bold black-letter (Gothic) type, this leaf comes from one of the landmark English Bibles of the Reformation. Edmund Becke's revision preserved much of William Tyndale's pioneering translation while incorporating the work of Miles Coverdale, making the Matthew's Bible one of the great predecessors of the Geneva Bible.
The verso contains extensive early manuscript pen trials, signatures, flourishes, and doodles executed by one or more early owners. Such contemporary manuscript additions provide tangible evidence of the Bible's long life of ownership and use and are often prized by collectors of early printed books as unique historical artifacts. No two leaves with this kind of contemporary writing are alike.
Authentic sixteenth-century title leaf with substantial age-related wear.
There are losses along the upper margin and upper right corner together with edge wear, tears, toning, and handling accumulated over nearly five centuries. The decorative title, the list of biblical books, and the surrounding woodcut illustrations remain remarkably attractive and display well.
The verso bears extensive contemporary manuscript writing and pen trials from an early owner, adding historical interest and individuality.
Guaranteed original—not a reproduction or facsimile.
1549 Matthew Bible, Matthew's Bible, STC 2077, Title Page, Third Part of the Bible, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Daniel, Twelve Prophets, John Day, William Seres, Edmund Becke, William Tyndale, Miles Coverdale, Tudor woodcuts, Black Letter Bible, English Reformation, Antique Bible Leaf.