Antique Miniature Book of Common Prayer with Clasp
Antique Miniature Book of Common Prayer with Clasp
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This is a Victorian miniature Book of Common Prayer in a format that was made to be given, not just read. The Diamond 48mo type size is among the smallest ever used in English printing, producing a text block so compact it fits in a coat pocket or a lady's reticule, and Charles Courtier and Sons at Paternoster Row fitted it in the trade tradition with an ivorine and brass presentation slipcase, the front panel carrying a pierced bone cartouche in a Gothic Revival diamond form centered on the IHS Christogram. The spine tooling, gilt cross ornaments on brown leather, matches the devotional vocabulary of the case exactly. This is a complete gift object, book and slipcase together, of the kind that was presented at confirmations, weddings, and christenings throughout the high Victorian period.
The leather binding is sound and structurally intact, with light overall dulling and minor surface rubbing consistent with age and handling. The gilt spine lettering and cross tools remain legible and largely present. The fore-edge shows gilt with rust toning from long contact with the brass frame, consistent with the piece having been housed in its slipcase throughout its life. The text block appears complete and tight; the pages show age toning appropriate to the period with no water damage visible in the photos. The ivorine slipcase panels show light surface spotting and general age patina; the brass frame has honest oxidation throughout. The brass latch and hinge are present and functional. The pierced bone IHS cartouche is intact. No inscription. No date.
Shipping & Returns
All antique and vintage items are shipped from our warehouse in Bluffdale, Utah. Each piece is carefully packed by hand using archival materials and custom crating when necessary.
Shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on the size and weight of the item. Local pickup is available at the AMD Warehouse.
All sales of antique and vintage items are final due to their unique, one-of-a-kind nature. Illuminé candles and The Collector's Guide may be returned within 14 days of delivery if unopened and in original condition.
If your piece arrives damaged, please photograph the damage immediately (including packaging), contact us within 48 hours at austynmariedesign@gmail.com, and do not discard any packaging.
Important Info About Antique & Vintage
Every antique and vintage item we carry has lived a life before arriving in your home. These are not factory-made products. They are objects with history, character, and the marks of time.
Age-appropriate wear, patina, minor imperfections, and signs of previous use or repair are inherent to antique and vintage items and are not considered defects. These characteristics are part of what makes each piece unique and are often what give it its beauty and value.
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