A small proportioned George III period mahogany table top book press in  good original condition c.1820. Moulded edge plinth to the base. There is a rise and fall press panel sat over the base with a rise and fall hand turned locking screw above; decorative acorn finial to the top. Solid timbers throughout and presented in immaculate condition with a deep shine. The book press measures 34.5cm w x' 22.5cm dxx 33cm h to the top of the frame.
 
During the 18th and early 19th centuries, educated households often owned a small book press for minor bookbinding tasks:
 
Rebinding or repairing worn books.
Pressing newly glued spines and boards.
Flattening creased or dampened pages.
Bookbinding manuals from the Georgian period (e.g. early 1800s) even describe “gentleman’s” or “amateur binder’s” presses that could sit on a table or writing desk.
They were also used for pressing documents, letters, and engravings, to:
 
Smooth out creases.
Keep correspondence flat and tidy.
Dry prints or drawings made with ink or watercolour.
This was important in an age when paper was expensive and reused — and well-kept papers reflected refinement and care.