Isaac Watts, D D 1674-1748Biblio.com
Watt, IsaacBiblio.com
The Psalms of David. Imitated in the Language of the New Testament. And Applied to the Christian State and Worship. Bound with Hymns and Spirituall Songs in Three Books
1778001367London: J. W. Parsham 1778. Hand-Painted Vellum; With Full Morocco Box. Near Fine. 2 volumes in one. 12mo 4.75 by 3" 12 by 7 cm. 4 240 20 4 216 26 pp. Above all else this is a beautifully painted vellum binding in the style of the Edwards of Halifax a family of bookbinders in the late 18th century who developed a process of producing painting on vellum or parchment. The painting would actually lie under the surface giving it a greater permanence as well as a subtle glassy aura. On the front of this particular binding is a lady in late Georgian attire playing an organ with a cherub at her side and a lute at her feet. The rear board has a tinted illustration of a castle in a park-like setting. The spine is divided into five compartments four of which have a lyre ornament. Gilt ornamental borders and other detail work add further refinement to the binding. This comes with a brown levant gilt folding case shaped like book octavo in size and with plush interior with resting compartment for book itself by Sangorski & Sutcliffe. The joints of the book are partly cracked. The first title page has some light soilage. There is a small tear partially repaired on pp 1/2 of the second work. The vellum has light soilage and wear. Front joint of box repaired. Some minor scuffs and rubbing along edges. Notwithstanding these issues the book remains a highly attractive work of book art. J. W. Parsham unknown
