The binding or protective cover of the Chinese manuscript sold for £24,000 at Bearnes Hampton & Littlewood.
It was catalogued by held by Bearnes Hampton & Littlewood (25% buyer’s premium) simply, and very briefly, as a Chinese book of 13 loose leaves, folded once and with all but two leaves bearing characters in black on a pink background. It also boasted hardwood covers featuring a bordered panel and metal Chinese characters that were presumed to be the title.
No other details were available at the time of writing, but the binding or elaborately decorated cover or container is shown above.
A 1639 Whole Book of Psalms – £4200 at Bearnes Hampton & Littlewood.
Also pictured is a 1639 edition of The Whole Book of Psalms in a contemporary binding embroidered with silver wires that form a raised pattern of tulip petals to both front and back covers and a matching, four compartment design to the spine. The blue velvet background is slightly faded and rubbed, but it was said to be otherwise in good condition and it sold at £4200.
Great gift for Gladstone
Other highlights included a presentation copy to William Ewart Gladstone of a supplement to the 1851 Great Exhibition catalogue, one titled in gilt to the full crimson morocco binding ‘Exhibition MDCCCLI Medals and Certificates’.
It sold at £8000.
