1847 Psalms of David Isaac Watts | Miniature Antique Book | Silk Moiré Binding | Gilt Edges | Rare

2026-04-19T21:00:21-04:00

Price: 225.00

A striking miniature-format 1847 edition of The Psalms of David, accompanied by hymns and spiritual songs by Isaac Watts—one of the most enduring voices in English devotional literature.

Measuring just 3” x 4 1/4”, this volume falls firmly within true miniature range, offering a tactile and highly collectible example of 19th-century bookmaking in a compact form. The text includes Watts’ poetic renderings of the Psalms, designed for both private devotion and congregational use, and remains among the most widely circulated hymn works in the English-speaking world.

This copy has been beautifully rebound in half binding with silk moiré boards, giving it a refined, almost luminous quality in the light. The spine features raised bands with gilt titling, while the text block retains richly toned gilt edges. A finely engraved frontispiece depicting the Birth of Christ adds further visual and historical interest.

Isaac Watts (1674–1748), often called the “Father of English Hymnody,” transformed devotional writing by moving beyond strict psalm translation into more expressive and personal religious verse. His hymns—including Joy to the World and When I Survey the Wondrous Cross—remain foundational to Christian worship and literary history.

Compact yet visually rich, this is a piece that bridges devotional history and decorative appeal—equally suited for collectors of miniature books, fine bindings, or 19th-century religious works.

Binding near fine. Rebound silk moiré boards with leather spine, tight and highly attractive. Interior very good with age toning, light scattered foxing, and occasional light staining consistent with use. Overall a beautifully preserved and display-worthy example.

Size: 3” x 4 1/4”

A true miniature antiquarian volume—rare in this size and especially desirable with such an elegant rebinding.