Material: Leather
Antique: Yes
Country of Origin: United Kingdom
Hymns Ancient & Modern 1889 Old Edition Leather Bound William Clowes Church Music
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This item is the 1889 Old Edition of Hymns Ancient and Modern, edited by W. H. Monk and C. Steggall, printed by William Clowes and Sons, London. This hymn book was specifically designed for use in the services of the Church, with accompanying tunes.
This edition represents a cornerstone of Anglican worship music, featuring both traditional and Victorianera hymns that were widely used across the British Empire. The book contains numerous supplemental hymns added in 1889 and reflects the liturgical reforms and musical practices of the time.
It is bound in textured black leather with blind tooling and the title “Holy Bible” in gilt on the spine (likely misbound or repurposed binding). A name is inscribed inside the cover: Mrs. H.C. Hallett, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, adding a layer of personal and historical provenance.
Product Details:
• Title: Hymns Ancient and Modern (Old Edition)
• Edition: 1889 (with supplements)
• Editors: W.H. Monk (Mus. Doc), C. Steggall (Mus. Doc)
• Publisher: William Clowes and Sons, Limited, 31 Haymarket, S.W., London
• Binding: Black leather, blindstamped border design
• Size: Approx. 11 cm (4.3 inches) tall – pocketsized edition
• Features: Indexed with Metrical Index of Tunes, historical notes, and over 600 hymns
Condition:
Acceptable antique condition:
• Cover: Edge wear with rubbing and chipping, especially to spine ends and corners. The black leather cover remains intact, though worn. Title “Holy Bible” appears on the spine—may be from reused covers.
• Binding: Front inner hinge is cracked and separating; the text block is visible, though pages are secure.
• Pages: Foxing and toning throughout. Some pages show minor staining. Writing on the inside front cover and flyleaf from previous owner.
• Spine: Structurally intact but shows visible wear and fading of gilt.
Overall, a wellworn but complete and highly collectible piece of ecclesiastical music history.
About Hymns Ancient and Modern:
First published in 1861, Hymns Ancient and Modern became the standard hymnal of the Anglican Church for over a century. The hymnal sought to unify Anglican worship through a curated selection of texts and tunes—many still sung today. The 1889 edition added supplemental hymns in response to evolving worship needs and musical tastes. W.H. Monk was one of the most influential figures in Anglican church music, responsible for composing and adapting many tunes.
Why Choose This Item?
• Authentic 19thcentury Anglican hymn book used in historic church services
• Rich provenance with a personal inscription
• Perfect for collectors of religious books or church history
• Ideal decorative or reference piece for musicians, historians, or bibliophiles
This is a genuine Victorianera hymnal, over 130 years old, with timeworn character and ecclesiastical heritage.
