1583 Geneva Bible Large Folio Leaf — 1 Samuel 25–28
1583 Geneva Bible Large Folio Leaf — 1 Samuel 25–28
Step into the world of Elizabethan England with this genuine, original large folio leaf from the 1583 Geneva Bible, preserving a remarkable sequence of events from the Book of 1 Samuel.
This impressive-format leaf comes from the large folio edition of the Geneva Bible printed in London during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. Printed in bold Gothic Black Letter, the leaf combines substantial physical size with the distinctive typography and extensive marginal commentary for which the Geneva Bible is renowned.
Measuring approximately 10¾" × 15", this is an especially commanding example for collectors of early English Bibles, Reformation-era printing, and historic biblical leaves.
FEATURED SCRIPTURE
1 Samuel Chapters 25–28
The leaf preserves portions of four consecutive chapters and includes several important episodes from the life of David:
- 1 Samuel 25 — Events involving David, Nabal, and Abigail.
- 1 Samuel 26 — David's nighttime entrance into Saul's camp, where he refuses to kill the sleeping king and instead takes Saul's spear and water vessel as evidence of his presence.
- 1 Samuel 27 — David seeks refuge among the Philistines and comes under the protection of Achish, king of Gath.
- 1 Samuel 28 — Saul's encounter with the woman of Endor as he seeks guidance before the coming battle.
The sequence provides a fascinating glimpse into one of the most dramatic periods of David's early history.
HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE
The Geneva Bible occupies an important place in the history of English Protestant printing. Known for its distinctive translation, extensive marginal annotations, and accessible presentation, it became one of the most influential English Bibles of the Reformation era.
The 1583 London printing represents the Geneva Bible tradition during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, when English biblical printing was continuing to develop in both format and presentation.
This large folio leaf is particularly striking because of its substantial dimensions, bold blackletter typography, and preserved marginal commentary, offering a tangible connection to the religious and printing culture of Elizabethan England.
TYPOGRAPHY & VISUAL FEATURES
- Original 16th-century printing
- Geneva Bible — 1583
- Large folio format
- Approximately 10¾" × 15"
- Bold Gothic Black Letter typography
- Extensive Geneva marginal commentary and references
- Two decorative historic woodcut initial letters introducing chapters
- Multiple consecutive chapters from 1 Samuel
AUTHENTICITY & CONDITION
Certificate of Authenticity:
This historic leaf is accompanied by an official Certificate of Authenticity documenting its identification.
Overall Condition:
Very good antiquarian condition for a leaf approximately 440 years old, with excellent structural integrity and strong preservation of the printed text.
Text & Typography:
The printing remains dark, bold, crisp, and fully legible across the principal text columns, chapter headings, and preserved marginal commentary.
Age Characteristics:
A very light historic moisture stain is present along the bottom margin area. The staining remains faint and does not interfere with the printed text.
The edges are remarkably well preserved, with no major tears or significant areas of paper loss. The leaf displays a gentle natural cream-colored age patina consistent with its centuries-old origin.
PRESERVATION & DISPLAY
At approximately 10¾" × 15", this large folio leaf makes an especially impressive display piece. Its generous proportions allow the Gothic typography, woodcut initials, and extensive Geneva marginalia to be appreciated at a comfortable viewing scale.
For long-term preservation and display, archival acid-free materials and appropriate UV-protective glazing are recommended.
A substantial survivor from the Elizabethan era, this leaf offers collectors a tangible connection to the history of the Geneva Bible, early English printing, and the biblical narrative of David and Saul.
INQUIRIES
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Collection Reference: AS-1025
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