COLLINS' BIBLE ~ JERUSALEM MOTHER of PEARL COVER

Updated September 24, 2026

AVAILABLE for SHIPPING or LOCAL PICKUP > Vintage Collins' Clear-Type Press Holy Bible** fitted with elaborate **mother of pearl Jerusalem souvenir covers**, each measuring approximately **3-3/8 x 5-3/4 inches**. The covers are composed of individually fitted sections of natural mother of pearl in varying tones, shapes and sizes, with pierced and carved decorative elements arranged in geometric and floral patterns. The intended front cover is centered by a raised star within an openwork panel, with **~JERUSALEM~** hand carved or etched directly below. The opposing cover incorporates a different central pierced motif, with both panels displaying natural shell iridescence ranging from creamy white and silver to pale gold, pink and green. Comparable surviving examples identify this type of mother of pearl binding as **Holy Land pilgrimage and souvenir work associated with Jerusalem and Bethlehem**, often applied to small devotional Bibles such as those published by Collins' Clear-Type Press. The fitted shell covers were produced as decorative bindings for these compact Bibles and are now collected for both their religious association and detailed hand worked shell craftsmanship. The rear mother of pearl cover remains attached to the Bible, while the front cover has become detached. Despite the souvenir market origin, the individually cut shell sections, pierced ornament and carved detailing give the covers a distinctly handcrafted and decorative character. **CONDITION REPORT >** Front mother of pearl cover is detached from the Bible; rear cover remains attached. Bible covering shows substantial loss, tearing and deterioration, particularly to the front cover and spine area. Mother of pearl covers show age related wear and minor surface irregularities. As discovered, not cleaned or altered.

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