The British Jews by John Mills – 1853 – First Edition

A Rare and Special Copy from the Rothschild Family ...

The British Jews by John Mills – 1853 – First Edition

A Rare and Special Copy from the Rothschild Family Library

Title: The British Jews

Author: John Mills

Published: London, 1853

Publisher: Houlston & Stoneman

Edition: First Edition

Condition: Excellent

Description:

This rare and unique copy of The British Jews by John Mills was published in London in 1853 and provides an important historical account of Jewish life in England during the mid-19th century. During this period, there was a growing interest in the social, religious, and economic status of Jews in the country, and Mills’ work offers valuable insights into the challenges and contributions of the Jewish community within British society.

Key Features:

Historical Significance:

Mills, a scholar of his time, provides an in-depth look at the Jewish community in Britain, exploring various aspects of Jewish life, interfaith relations, and the process of emancipation that was central to public discourse at the time.

Thematic Focus:

The book sheds light on how the Jewish community in Britain navigated challenges related to social integration, religious identity, and their economic contributions to society, all set against the backdrop of 19th-century England. It also provides a fascinating look at the interactions between Jews and non-Jews in the evolving societal context.

Illustrations:

The book features an engraving of the Torah Scroll on its opening page, an important symbol of Jewish faith and identity, reinforcing the book’s connection to Jewish culture and religion.

First Edition:

This is the first edition of the book, a highly sought-after rarity for collectors and scholars interested in Jewish history and the history of British Jewry.

Provenance:

This particular copy comes from the renowned Rothschild Family Library (English branch), known for its exceptional collection of rare and significant books. The Rothschild family has long been associated with patronage of Jewish scholarship and the preservation of Jewish heritage.

Condition:

Excellent Condition: This book is in excellent condition, with minimal signs of age and wear.

Binding: The binding is strong and intact, and the pages are in great shape with only minor foxing or age-related markings, which is typical for a book of this age.

Illustration: The engraving at the beginning of the book is clear and well-preserved, adding to the overall appeal and historical value.

Summary:

The British Jews by John Mills is a rare first edition that offers an invaluable historical perspective on the Jewish community in Britain in the 19th century. This special copy from the Rothschild Library is a treasure for scholars, collectors, and those interested in the history of Jewish life in England. It provides a unique window into the community’s struggles and successes during a period of profound change, offering readers a rich understanding of Jewish integration and identity in Britain.

This volume is an essential addition to any collection of Jewish history or British history, and its pristine condition and illustrious provenance make it a particularly valuable item.

This description is designed to highlight the historical importance, rarity, and special provenance of the book for a potential auction. It also emphasizes the book's scholarly value and relevance for collectors of Jewish and British historical works.