Psalms of David

I had the fortunate opportunity of spending some time with an old friend on our trip.  She and I go all the way back to the second grade.  When we see each other, it's just a matter of picking up where we left off, as if time hadn't passed at all.  She's like the sister I never had.  While in her (absolutely charming) home visiting, she gave me the most beautiful book that I wanted to share with you all today.  It's presently sitting on our coffee table.















It's called the Psalms of David.  The story behind it is as sweet as the book itself.  It was written and illustrated by an Englishman born in India in 1859. 
















James Freemantle married a woman named Clara in 1906. Around the time they were married, he began work on this book as a gift for her.
















Almost every page is filled with beautiful illustrations and calligraphy.
















It took him 30 years to finish the book.  Talk about dedication. He died the year he finished it.
















I love flipping through it and thinking of the love he must have had for his wife to take such effort. 
















This book would make an excellent gift.  It was for me. 
















Thanks friend. :)

24 comments:

  1. What a lovely gift. I am sure this book will always hold a special place in your heart.

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  2. Wow! that is a wonderful gift and I'm going to remember it for gifts in the future! Thank you!

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  3. just tried to email you and it bounced back. is it @gmail.com?

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  4. love this book....how beautiful to remind you of this great love story and also to remind you of such a sweet friendship.

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  5. What a lovely way to honor the Psalms and his wife. Love that story. Reminds me of the St. John Bible, that I was able to see twice - commissioned in Wales - the entire Bible being hand lettered with art work.

    I will add this to my list for when my husband ask for an idea of something to buy me.

    Old friendships are so sweet.

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  6. My daughter-in-law bought this book for me before her and my son were married...it is a special treasure to me also....I just love it.
    Enjoy,
    Janette

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  7. What a story of commitment and devotion.

    olive

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  8. Yes, old friendship are to be treasured indeed.

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  9. What a gorgeous book from an old friend. And a true labor of love it was. Beautiful calligraphy and illustrations.

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  10. Such a delightful gift for you Rie. What a talented, devoted man.
    Angex

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  11. So very sweet, especially coming from someone dear to your heart.
    xx Suzanne

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  12. It is a gorgeous book and I agree would make a lovely gift! Thank you for sharing it and the story behind it. xx

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  13. What a lovely book! Such a beautiful gesture from your dear friend!

    Enjoy!
    Cathy

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  14. That is just beautiful! The writing is lovely. The recipient of this gift must have treasured it with all her heart.
    Ness xx

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  15. The company of a childhood friend is so comforting, like long awaited rain. I love the book she gave you and the story behind it. Must find a copy for myself.

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  16. What a beautiful book! And the Psalms are just so comforting.
    ☺ Celeste

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  17. This gift is a seed sown. Wow! We reap what we sow. Lovely!

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  18. What a lovely idea for a gift. I am sure you will enjoy it for years to come. Thanks so much for sharing:).

    ~Julia

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  19. Such a thoughtful gift! I loved the illustrations you showed so much I purchased one from amazon for myself!

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  20. I've seen this book before, actually I've given it as a gift before. I really need to get one for our family. It is so very beautiful.

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  21. Lovely story!!!!!! I love the idea of Placing the book open on the coffe table in the livingroom! the illustrations are beautiful!!!
    Your daughter,
    Paris

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  22. I've owned a copy of this for several years and love to browse through it while reading the Psalms~
    Blessings

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  23. I wrote back on June 10, but am writing again to tell you how much I have enjoyed this book and keep giving it as gifts. I found copies on Amazon for as little as $7.00. What a great gift. Thanks so much for introducing me to it.

    Fondly,
    Glenda

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