A stunning antique Polish devotional prayer book, beautifully preserved in its original box and featuring a celluloid cover with vivid Eucharistic imagery—gold chalice, angels, clouds, the full works. These celluloid-covered prayer books were treasured keepsakes for First Communion or military chaplains and have become highly collectible.
This particular copy includes:
✨ Original fitted box (rare)
✨ Handwritten WWI-era note inside box: “War started 1914, end in Nov 5–7” — an incredible piece of personal history
✨ Metal clasp intact and functioning
✨ Gold gilt page edges
✨ Polish-language prayers throughout
✨ Additional inserted booklet: “Piesn Witaj Królowo Nieba”
✨ Gorgeous embossed cross on interior presentation page
✨ Superb display piece or devotional collectible
Condition:
– Celluloid cover in very good antique condition with one small chip (photographed).
– Gilt edges bright.
– Binding tight.
– Box shows age and wear but fully intact.
– Pages clean for age; some toning as expected.
This is the kind of item that survives only when a family keeps it protected for over 100 years—and it shows. A meaningful, historical, and visually striking piece for collectors of Catholic antiques, Polish devotional artifacts, WWI-era items, or vintage celluloid bindings.