This 1816 pamphlet, titled The Prophecy of Glad Tidings, Just From the Mouth of the Inspired Prophet, is an antique chapbook that features a self-styled prophet known as the "deaf, dumb dwarf." Often sold inexpensively in their time, chapbooks like this one contained engaging stories, poetry, or religious texts. Standing just 17 inches tall, this unusual figure allegedly created rhyming prophecies that captivated readers. Even though it was in poor condition, this antique chapbook achieved a final price of $992 at Britannic Auctions in 2024.
The Bizarre Depiction of "Peter Loural"
The chapbook includes an engraving of Loural with “flaming eyes” and a scroll that reads “Glad Tidings to America.”
"Sixty years of age, and but seventeen inches high, thirty inches round his body, and seven from the sole of his foot to his hip bone; his foot in length is just thirteen inches, and the tips of his fingers don’t quite meet across his breast."
The engraving reflects early 19th-century artistic styles with intricate linework and symbolic details. Loural is flanked by stars, which convey celestial significance. Additionally, a bumblebee, often a symbol of wisdom and industriousness during that period, appears. This image, possibly created by William Edward West, combines historical artistry with allegorical meaning. The pamphlet spans 10 pages and references events like the American Revolutionary War. Loural claimed to have predicted these outcomes in advance.
Peter Loural’s story reflects a time in American history marked by a fascination with omens and miracles. His choice to publish a chapbook, priced at 23 cents, shows his intent to share his prophecies with a wide audience. The survival and auction of this chapbook demonstrate the continued interest in such artifacts.
Historical and Collectible Appeal of Antique Chapbooks
Historically, printers created chapbooks as cheaply printed booklets intended for mass distribution. These booklets often included engravings and simple narratives. As a result, inexpensive production and heavy use left most surviving chapbooks in poor condition.
Furthermore, collectors actively seek antique chapbooks, particularly those with unique themes or historical significance. Originally sold for a few cents, these chapbooks now vary widely in value based on factors like age, condition, and content. For example, Loural’s chapbook sale demonstrates how these items continue to capture collector interest.
Auction Values for Antique Chapbooks
Recent auction sales provide insight into the market for antique chapbooks:
St. Julien, the Emigrant; or, Europe Depicted (1812): Featuring a hand-colored map frontispiece, 32 pages of text, and seven hand-colored aquatint figures on card, this chapbook sold at Bonhams in 2024 for £89.60 (approximately $112 USD).
The History of the Holy Jesus (1749): A complete chapbook detailing the life and resurrection of Jesus. Sold in 2021 for $6,380.
Negro Piety, Exemplified in the Life and Death of Cornelius, an Assistant of the Moravian Missions in St. Thomas, and The Happy Negro: Swann Galleries sold these two chapbooks together in 2017 for $450.
Exploring the Value of Antique Chapbooks
Do you own an antique chapbook or other rare books? Britannic Auctions offers free evaluations for items just like this. Visit our Consignment page to learn how we can help you realize the potential of your collectible items, or request a Free Auction Estimate to find out what your treasures could bring at auction.
