ID 627515
Lot 25 | Douai-Rheims Bible
Estimate value
$ 6 000 – 8 000
First edition of the Roman Catholic translation of the Bible in English. Both a reaction to and product of the Protestant Reformation, the goal of this translation was to assist in the re-conversion of English Catholics. The project was overseen by the English College at Douai; the New Testament (and accompanying notes and commentary) was printed first, during the college's brief stay in Rheims, and the Old Testament followed in 1609-10 due to funding delays. The text sticks very closely to the Latin Vulgate, with an elevated style which exerted a strong influence on the King James Bible of 1611. Darlow & Moule 177 and 300; ESTC S102491 and S101944.
Three volumes, quarto (205 x 146mm). Titles printed within woodcut border, woodcut head- and tail-pieces, numerous woodcut initials (title of vol. 1 strengthened at outer edge and remargined at gutter, small holes affecting some letters, outer edges of vol. 1 shaved affecting shoulder notes, some dampstaining and dustsoiling throughout, worst in vol 1). Modern calf (spines sunned, a little wear at joints). Provenance: effaced inscription from unidentified Augustinian house (vol. 1) – Mary Boothe (signature dated 1647 and manuscript table of contents in vol 2) – O'Brien family (notes on births dated early 19th century in vol 1).
| Artist: | William Shakespeare (1564 - 1616) |
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| Applied technique: | Pencil |
| Artist: | William Shakespeare (1564 - 1616) |
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| Applied technique: | Pencil |
| Address of auction |
CHRISTIE'S 8 King Street, St. James's SW1Y 6QT London United Kingdom | |
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| Phone | +44 (0)20 7839 9060 | |
| Buyer Premium | see on Website | |
| Conditions of purchase | Conditions of purchase |













