Little Books at the RCB Library
The Representative Church Body (RCB) Library, Dublin, looks at the smaller side of books in October’s Archive of the Month with a corresponding exhibition showcasing some of its collection of miniature and small books available on display in the Library.
Two items are featured: one is a miniature Bible presented to the Library by C J Lundy, son of the Revd St George Lundy (1914–1976), and the other a beautiful edition of the Book of Common Prayer (BCP), which was purchased from a local charity shop after the Library was notified of its existence by a member of the public.
The first item is an intricate, miniature version of the Holy Bible, containing the Old and New Testaments. Measuring only 4.3 cm in height and 3 cm in width, the Bible is bound in a dark blue cover. A particularly delightful aspect of the volume is that it includes drawings of notable biblical events.
The second featured volume (right) is an edition of the BCP, published in 1861 by G. E. Eyre and W. Spottiswoode. It is in remarkable condition, being a near–perfect copy, with a simple ‘Church Service’ in gold on the segmented spine.
The book is bound in brown leather and the pages are gold–edged. What really takes the eye is the metal clasp that protects it, as well as the gold brass symbol on the front which states ‘peace’.
These rare books are just two examples of the many unique items that the RCB Library holds. Discover the stories behind them at this link.
The online exhibition has been researched and put together by Jennifer Murphy, Library Assistant, and Bryan Whelan, Assistant Librarian.