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The most common book from the 16th century (and onward) to survive to this day is the family bible, so it was less about beauty and more about religious devotio
by akiselev 3y ago
The most common book from the 16th century (and onward) to survive to this day is the family bible, so it was less about beauty and more about religious devotion mixed with the Reformation promoting a more accessible liturgy.
- taeric 3y agoI feel you are just talking past me? Many view the bible as a beautiful book. An heirloom, if you will. And I guarantee you the children's bibles were not nearly as kept as the ones for adults.
- NoZebra120vClip 3y agoI was given a children's hand missal as a First Holy Communion gift. It is bound in black faux leather, it is illustrated in color, and it is inscribed with the dates of my Sacraments, including space for future Matrimony, Religious Consecration, or Holy Orders. It's the most beautiful book I've ever owned, although it is mass-produced (so to speak.) 40 years later, I still have it carefully preserved and accessible.
- taeric 3y agoApologies, I meant that to be that "by the numbers" I would feel safe wagering that kid's bibles were not nearly as well kept as "family" ones. For mostly obvious reasons. Seriously, I could also make the claim that the bible is the most destroyed book in history. Without worrying too much about the final numbers, as that is an easy claim. It is the most printed book in the modern world. It should dominate all followon statistics.
- NoZebra120vClip 3y agoReligious devotion to beauty. Liturgy is beauty. Christians will affirm that the sacred liturgy is the most beautiful thing on earth. Scripture is beautiful on all possible levels. In fact, I think there is a cliché about judging books.
- dtech 3y agoI assume that was also the most common book in the 16th century, so as a % of preserved books the statement might still be true.