Ben-Hur – A Tale of the Christ by Lew Wallace

Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ by Lew Wallace is one of the most famous historical novels ever written, blending adventure, revenge, redemption, and faith against the backdrop of the Roman Empire and the life of Christ. This attractive 1959 abridged hardcover edition, edited by I. O. Evans and illustrated by Gordon Nicoll, offers readers an accessible and beautifully presented version of the timeless classic.

Published by Frederick Warne & Co. Ltd., this edition of Ben-Hur is particularly appealing for its elegant mid-century design, warm beige cloth binding with red lettering, and charming illustrations throughout. The artwork adds visual depth to the dramatic tale of Judah Ben-Hur, a Jewish prince betrayed into slavery who ultimately finds spiritual transformation through encounters connected to Jesus Christ.

Originally published in 1880, Ben-Hur became a global bestseller and later inspired several film adaptations, most famously the 1959 Academy Award-winning epic film. The story’s enduring popularity lies in its combination of thrilling chariot races, Roman intrigue, and deeply spiritual themes of forgiveness and redemption.

This 1959 hardcover remains in very good condition overall. The binding is firm and attractive, with only light signs of age and handling. Internally clean and well preserved. There is prior ownership in ink on the inner cover, along with a pasted illustration of a vulture affixed to the endpaper, giving the volume an unusual and distinctive character from a previous owner’s collection.

An excellent collectible reading copy for admirers of classic literature, Christian fiction, historical novels, and vintage illustrated editions.

Condition – Very Good

1959 hardcover edition. Beige cloth boards remain clean and presentable with light shelf wear. Binding firm. Internally clean overall. Prior ownership inscription in ink on the inner cover. Decorative illustration of a vulture pasted to the endpaper. A solid and attractive vintage copy.