1605 Geneva Bible, New Testament Original Leaves, Sold Individually

Description:
Offered here is a substantial group of original leaves from a 1605 Geneva Bible, one of the most historically important English Bibles of the Reformation period. The Geneva Bible was the Bible of the English Puritans and Pilgrims and was widely used in the late 16th and early 17th centuries, predating the King James Version of 1611.

These leaves are printed in two-column blackletter type with extensive marginal commentary, the distinctive study notes for which the Geneva Bible is famous. The pages include running chapter summaries, cross references, and theological marginal notes typical of the Geneva edition.

The paper is period rag paper, printed on a hand press with movable type. Despite being over 400 years old, the text remains generally clear and readable. Condition varies from leaf to leaf but overall is typical for early 17th-century printed material, with expected edge wear, toning, occasional staining, and minor losses.

This group represents a large portion of the New Testament, spanning multiple books including the Gospels, Acts, the Pauline epistles, and Revelation.

Because these leaves are loose, they may be used for:

• collectors of early Bibles

• framing or display

• study of early English Bible printing

• bookbinding or conservation projects

Condition:
Overall good antique condition for the age. Expect typical early paper wear including:

• edge chipping

• light staining or toning

• occasional wormholes or small losses

• minor corner damage on some leaves

Please review photos carefully for condition details.

Missing Leaves / Page Gaps:
This group represents most of the New Testament but the following pages are missing:

• p. 442

• pp. 447–449

• p. 457

• pp. 473–481

• p. 488

• pp. 511–514

• pp. 519–529

• pp. 536–544

Additionally, the following sections of Matthew are not present:

• Matthew chapter 6

• Matthew chapter 7

• Matthew chapter 12

• Matthew chapter 13

All other pages appear to be present within the surviving portion.

Historical Note:
The Geneva Bible was first published in 1560 by English Protestant reformers in Geneva. It introduced several innovations including verse numbering and extensive marginal commentary, making it one of the earliest true “study Bibles.” It remained the most popular English Bible until the King James Version began to replace it in the 17th century.

Dimensions (Approximately):
Height - 22cm 

Width - 16.5cm