Book Of Common Prayer, Silver Spine, Faux Tortoise Shell Binding, Engraved Oriental Scenes, Rare

Extremely rare and unusual edition,

THE BOOK OF COMMON PRAYER,
and administration of the sacraments, and other rites and ceremonies of the church, according to the use of the Church of England: together with the psalter or psalms of David, pointed as they are to be sung or said in Churches; and the form and manner of making, ordaining, and consecrating of Bishops, Priests, and Deacons.

Printed at the Oxford University Press, London. Henry Frowde is named as printer to the University, whose tenure ran between 1880-1913.

Diamond 48mo. 

contents also includes;

HYMNS ANCIENT AND MODERN,
for use in the services of the Church. Complete Edition.

Printed for the proprietors by William Clowes and Sons, London.

The book is small, measuring 7cm x 10cm, 3cm thick. 

The book has unique binding. The spine is a hallmarked silver curved panel. Stamped with B.S makers mark, along with a letter 'd', a lion symbol, and a shield shape. We believe the 'd' represents the year 1903. The lion indicates Stirling Silver. The shield shape could represent a leopards head, meaning the London Assay Office. The makers mark B.S we believe to be Benjamin Stapleton. Both front and rear boards have what appear to be faux tortoise shell panels, engraved with two different oriental scenes. They appear to represent Chinese structures, surrounded by trees and foliage, with a number of people conversing/working. We have included numerous photographs in this listing that give a clear view of each scene. Both panels have been inserted in a way that the leather binding borders the engravings, enabling light to transfer though the panels when the covers are opened. When held up to light the traditional tortoise shell pattern can be observed. The adjacent end papers are teal silk moire. 

There are signs of age, use and wear. The silver spine has aged patina, dulled and discoloured. The faux tortoise shell panels are generally good, the engravings remain largely intact, some slight chipping and small holes noticeable on close inspection. The leather cover margins have significant surface wear, the hinges are splitting the length of both boards, however still holding well. The smooth reverse inside panels are a little chipped and cracked in parts, again holding together well. The silk end papers are slightly stained and discoloured. The text block remains firm, tight and complete. No loose or missing pages. Some mild foxing dotted throughout, general age toning of the entire block. Remnants of a couple of page marker ribbons, in poor condition. Gilt page edges are dulled and scratched from use. No previous inscriptions, highlighting or notes. No history of ownership. 

Overall the book is good, showing its age, however its uniqueness overrides any general condition issues. A fascinating binding, perhaps made for a Missionary preacher who travelled China in the late 19th Century, or perhaps a novelty binding for tourists. 

We try to be as accurate as we can with information on hallmarks etc, however some of the details may be differ with more in-depth investigation.

Please check all the photographs for the best understanding of condition. If you require any further information or additional photographs then please don't hesitate to get in touch. 

We dispatch well packaged via a tracked and signed for service.

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Bridgesbookshop.