Travel was an important part of society people in the 19th century, not just long-distance travel to exotic places, but also shooting and party weekends to country houses. Their luggage would be quite extensive, and often would include a book slider to accompany thier current reading matter. These book sliders could be folded and placed in the suitcase, when neaded they would be placed by the bed and could keep thier reading materials together.
 
This is a nice example of a Victorian bookslide, made from mahogany and embellished with pierced brass decoration; which also has fine engraving to add to the quality of this piece. This could also be used on a desk, to keep a small number of reference books together. 
 
The wood and brass are both in good condition with no slits or cracks, the hinges are original and work well, the book slide extends by pulling the two edge sections apart, this is in good working order.
 
Dimensions when closed: 33cm x 13cm