Antique leather-bound Holy Bible printed by George Eyre and William Spottiswoode for the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge, circa 1840s

This Bible was printed in London by George Eyre and William Spottiswoode, who served as the Queen’s Printers during the mid-19th century. The Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge (SPCK), founded in 1698, was one of the oldest Anglican mission organizations and played a crucial role in distributing Bibles and religious literature throughout the British Empire. These Bibles were produced under royal authority, as indicated by the phrase ‘By His Majesty’s Special Command,’ reflecting the close relationship between the Church of England and the Crown during the Victorian era.

Victorian-era Bibles like this one are highly valued by collectors of religious texts, antiquarian books, and British historical artifacts. They represent an important period in printing history and religious dissemination, appealing to bibliophiles, historians, and those interested in the social and cultural impact of Christianity in the 19th century. The craftsmanship of the leather binding and the historical significance of the royal appointment make these Bibles desirable pieces for both personal collections and institutional archives.