The literary character and high embellishment of the German almanacs,
have occasioned an annual publication of beautifully printed works for
presents at this season. The _Amulet_, for 1826, is of this order. Its
purpose is to blend religious instruction with literary amusement.
Messrs. W. L. Bowles, Milman, Bowring, Montgomery, Bernard Barton,
Conder, Clare, T. C. Croker, Dr. Anster, Mrs. Hofland, &c.; and, indeed,
individuals of various denominations, are contributors of sixty original
essays and poems to this elegant volume, which is embellished by highly
finished engravings from designs by Martin, Westall, Brooke, and other
painters of talent. Mr. Martin’s two subjects are engraved by himself in
his own peculiarly effective manner. Hence, while the _Amulet_ aims to
inculcate the fitness of Christian precepts, and the beauty of the
Christian character, it is a specimen of the progress of elegant
literature and fine art.
* * * * *
The _Amulet_ contains a descriptive poem, wherein the meaning of the
word _advent_ is exemplified; it commences on the next page.