Hardcover. 16mo. ~700 pp. In a very fine custom binding of full blue velvet with inset solid 18k gold medallion (approx. 1 gram) inscribed "Prayer" to the front board, pages edges to all sides in gilt, boards bordered in brass with brass closure clasp bearing the owner's initials. With the ownership signature to the ffe of Mary E. Van Rensselaer, dated Albany, 1851. In a worn contemporary crimson paper slipcase, otherwise very fine. 

The owner Mary E. Van Rensselaer (1828-1877) was part of the Van Rensselaer family, one of the oldest European colonial families in New York, dating back to Kiliaen van Rensselaer, member of the Dutch West India Company which founded New Netherland in the 17th century.