Description
A handsome 1895 illustrated edition of John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress, published in Philadelphia by Henry Altemus for Altemus’ Young People’s Library. This early first-format edition retains its original pictorial cloth binding, with silver-stamped lettering, decorative spine ornamentation, and a dramatic multicolor scene of Christian’s spiritual journey.
The title page is dated 1895, and the publisher’s list contains the six original titles issued when the Young People’s Library began. Henry Altemus’ first-format books were produced from 1895 through early 1898 and featured individually designed pictorial cloth covers rather than the more standardized bindings used for later editions.
Notable features include:
* 1895 dated Henry Altemus publication
* Early Young People’s Library first-format binding
* Original decorated pictorial cloth cover
* Silver-stamped title and ornamental spine design
* Numerous detailed black-and-white illustrations
* Period Christmas 1895 Sunday-school presentation inscription
* Publisher’s list naming the six original Young People’s Library titles
* Slightly abridged text prepared for younger readers while retaining Bunyan’s religious teachings
* Includes a 1998 receipt from Sea Cliff Books & Prints in Sea Cliff, New York, which was found inside the book
The handwritten presentation reads approximately, “Anna Gibson, Reformed Church S.S., Christmas 1895.” This provides attractive period provenance and indicates that the book was presented during its year of publication.
Condition is consistent with an antique book more than 130 years old. The binding is noticeably cocked, with the boards and text block out of square. The covers show rubbing, staining, fading, bumped corners, and edge wear, with more extensive discoloration on the rear board. The silver cover and spine decoration remain visible, the boards remain attached, and the illustrated interior is generally presentable with age toning, scattered foxing, and occasional marks.
An appealing late-Victorian religious presentation book for collectors of John Bunyan, Christian literature, illustrated classics, decorative bindings, Sunday-school books, and Henry Altemus publications.
Please view all the photos carefully for the book’s exact appearance and condition.
