A Velvety Mid-19th Century Treasured Gift, Just as it Was When Given by an Uncle

THE BOOK OF COMMON PRAYER.

(BINDINGS - VICTORIAN VELVET). CHURCH OF ENGLAND.

(London: Printed by G. E. Eyre and W. Spottiswoode, 1855). 121 x 78 mm. (5 x 3"). [532] leaves.

Attractive contemporary dark purple velvet, covers edged in brass, brass corner pieces, upper cover with a central brass "IHC" Christogram, smooth spine, brass clasp, all edges gilt, white silk endleaves. Housed in a (probably contemporary) black pebble-grain morocco case with brass clasp, lined with white silk (a little wear to case, silk a little discolored in places). Front endleaf with a gilt gift inscription: "Presented to Jessie Cooper / from her affectionate Uncle / Alfred John Tubb. / Oct. 29. 1856." Verso of front free endpaper with the book label of Anthony David Estill. Velvet ever so slightly worn, miniscule separation at top and bottom of joints, a couple of pages with short marginal tears or nipped corners, but very close to pristine condition.

This is an unusually well-preserved example of a Victorian gift binding, little changed since the day it left the bindery. Judging from the charming gilt inscription on the silk endleaf, stating that it was a present from an "affectionate uncle" to his niece, it seems likely that the book was intended as a gift in honor of the girl's confirmation. The luxurious purple velvet, delicate brass fittings, and bright gilt edges connote treasure and opulence, and it is clear the that the young female recipient--and generations of later owners--took scrupulous care of it over the years. Velvet can be worn down quite easily, but here it remains fresh and richly colored, having been carefully stored away in its custom-made protective leather case. (ST19567-044)

Price: $950.00