I've had a couple of 19th century book shaped tole painted boxes holding ink wells with room for pens and letters inside; this I believe is an earlier and finer precursor to those, 18th century British I think. I purchased it at one of the shows in Nashville from a dealer who had purchased it at auction, described that way, and it is most definitely old, crafted, it appears to me, of thick, heavy brass (it is quite heavy and substantial for its size.) With original red paint still showing on the recessed "pages",  on the the un-raised sections of the spine, and on the interior, which I presume once held an inkwell at front right corner. Looking at those hinges makes me happy, and holding this in hand feels like immersing in an old library filled with shelves and shelves of beautiful leather bound books! 

5 1/2 x 4 x 1 13/16 and in very good antique condition, beautiful patina. Remnants of original red paint as evident. Heavy, very sturdy, hinges in excellent condition, pretty much indestructible I think.