Historical Gift Bible of Empress Auguste Victoria

Empress Auguste Victoria was known for presenting gift Bibles on special occasions – for instance, on wedding anniversaries, to distinguished individuals, or during political events in the German Empire. One such presentation Bible originates from Görlitz, presented on November 24, 1896. It is a Luther Bible, 1892 edition, featuring gilt edges, a clasp, and metal fittings on the four corners.

Dedication by the Empress – Reference to Psalm 131

On the inside is the original dedication by the Empress, which explicitly refers to Psalm 131 – an allusion to humility, trust, and inner peace, central themes of Auguste Victoria's piety. The dedication is signed "Auguste Victoria * Empress & Queen". The characteristically difficult-to-read handwriting corresponds to the monarch’s well-known penmanship.

Family tradition and sentimental value

This historical Luther Bible was passed down through the family for generations – a sign of its high sentimental value. Subsequent owners also inscribed their names in the Bible, making it not only a memento of the Imperial era today, but also a family heirloom with documented provenance.