1551 Tyndale-Taverner Bible Leaf — Psalms 88–91
1551 Tyndale-Taverner Bible Leaf — The Book of Psalms
Step back into the heart of the English Reformation with this original 1551 Tyndale-Taverner Bible leaf, preserving a remarkable selection of Scripture from the Book of Psalms.
Printed in London during the brief and historically significant reign of King Edward VI, this substantial double-column leaf is set in striking Gothic Black Letter type and preserves the visual character of early English Bible printing.
Identified as Folio 91, the leaf contains portions of Psalms 88, 89, 90, and 91, including the beautiful and enduring opening of Psalm 91:
“Whoso dwelleth under the defence of the most High…”
For collectors of early English Bibles, this leaf offers an exceptional combination of Reformation history, early English Scripture, period typography, and an especially recognizable biblical passage.
HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE
The Tyndale-Taverner Bible tradition occupies an important place in the development of the English Bible during the Reformation. The 1551 printing belongs to the period when English-language Scripture was undergoing rapid development and becoming increasingly accessible to English readers.
This leaf preserves that history in its original printed form, including the distinctive Gothic typeface, double-column arrangement, Early Modern English spelling, and period marginal references.
FEATURED SCRIPTURE
Folio 91 — Psalms 88–91
The leaf contains portions of:
Psalm 88
Psalm 89
Psalm 90
Psalm 91
Particularly noteworthy is the opening of Psalm 91, one of the most beloved passages in the Psalter:
“Whoso dwelleth under the defence of the most High…”
The page also preserves its original printed marginal notes and references, providing additional insight into the layout and reading practices of early English Bibles.
TYPOGRAPHY & VISUAL FEATURES
Original 16th-century printing
Double-column format
Striking Gothic Black Letter typeface
Early Modern English spelling
Contemporary printed marginal references
Historic period typography and page design
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Bible: Tyndale-Taverner Bible
Year: 1551
Location: London
Folio: 91
Text: Psalms 88–91
Format: Double-column leaf
Approximate Dimensions: 7¼" × 10¾"
Typeface: Gothic Black Letter
Documentation: Certificate of Authenticity included
AUTHENTICITY & CONDITION
Certificate of Authenticity:
This leaf is accompanied by a physical Certificate of Authenticity documenting its identification as an original 1551 Tyndale-Taverner Bible leaf.
Overall Condition:
Very Good antiquarian condition for a leaf approximately 475 years old. The paper retains excellent structural integrity, with crisp typography, strong ink contrast, and only minor age-related characteristics.
Condition Details:
One corner has a slight crease.
The upper-right corner has a tiny superficial loss confined to the blank margin, with no impact on the printed text.
Light historic staining is present along the upper margin.
A small area of light staining is visible near the lower margin adjacent to the creased corner.
These characteristics are consistent with the age and handling history of an original 16th-century printed leaf and do not interfere with the principal biblical text.
PRESERVATION & DISPLAY
This historic leaf is well suited for archival preservation or professional framing. Its striking blackletter typography and the recognizable opening of Psalm 91 make it particularly compelling when displayed using acid-free materials and appropriate UV-protective glazing.
A remarkable survivor from the English Reformation, this leaf provides a tangible connection to the early history of English Scripture and the development of the printed Bible.
INQUIRIES
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Collection Reference: AS-1022
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