Object of the Day: An Embroidered Victorian Book Cover

The English Victorians took every opportunity that they could to add embellishment to the items that they used every day. Books were no exception. This remnant of a Victorian book cover is testament to that fact. Most likely, this cover was created for a personal journal, photo album or a collection of post-cards or souvenirs.


Beautifully embroidered in gold thread, this cover is trimmed with silk fringe and lace and decorated with sequins and rhinestones. Many hours and much artistry were devoted to crafting this magnificent cover. Only the top remains. Just what it covered remains a mystery. I found this artifact at the traveling Antique Elegance Show and was enchanted by its artistry. It now is housed in a custom-built shadow box to protect it as it had once protected its precious contents.