The History of the Bible

Lansingburgh: Wm. Distrunell, 1820. First Edition. Miniature book, xiii, 14–256 pages. In a hand-sewn decorative wallpaper-paper protective cover, folk-art in character. Measures approximately 2 × 1½ inches. Illustrated in black-and-white. A scarce early American miniature Bible history, issued at Lansingburgh, New York, in 1820 by William Disturnell. The text presents a condensed account of biblical history for juvenile readers and is illustrated throughout with small woodcuts. Measuring only about two inches in height, the volume is a characteristic example of the miniature devotional and instructional books produced for young readers in the early nineteenth century. The 1820 Lansingburgh issue is regarded as the first edition of Disturnell’s History of the Bible and is recorded in the standard bibliographies of American miniature books. An uncommon and appealing survival of early American juvenile, religious, and miniature-book publishing. Some signs of rubbing, previous owner's pencil inscription, some discoloration, else in very good condition. Item #573

Price: $1,250.00