I Found an 1840 Book of Common Prayer With a Hidden Fore-Edge Painting

I found an 1840 Book of Common Prayer produced by Oxford University Press for the United Church of England and Ireland. It is bound in burgundy leather with brass clasps and red silk lining. Its most striking feature is a hidden fore-edge painting. When the gilt page edges are closed, they appear plain gold. When the pages are fanned, the words “Watch and Pray” and “Pray without ceasing” become visible. The book has made me reflect on the 1840s, when Anglican missions were expanding towards the Niger region. I am also researching Igbo objects and historical records in Brazilian museums and archives. I will keep all links and identifications marked as verification ongoing until I can confirm them through official museum or archive records. Has anyone encountered this kind of fore-edge painting before? I would also appreciate guidance on its possible value and proper preservation.

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