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Bound to Please: Unlocking the Allure of Leather Books and Fine Binding
Date: March 11, 2020
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Book collectors have diverse motivations; some focus on specific subjects, while others collect entire literary genres. Still, there are those who are drawn to the aesthetic joys offered by leather-bound antique bookstreasuring not just their intellectual content but also the visual impact of a well-curated library.
A Beautiful Library: Signifying Prestige and Affluence
Historically, owning a well-stocked library was a mark of scholarly distinction or wealth. Wealthy families would often take their custom bindings to local binderies, requesting bespoke covers for particular books.
Example: A stunning custom royal binding created for King Gustav of Austria around 1770 image from Britannic Auctions
Fine bookbinding has always been esteemed; even in our digital age, antiquarian book collectors still appreciate these precious volumes. The Metropolitan Museum of Art boasts an ever-growing collection of exquisite bindings that can be explored online.
Brief Bookbinding History
The earliest bound books known date back to the fourth century from ancient Egypt.
Fast forward a few centuries and the art evolved with monks producing meticulously handwritten manuscripts, binding them in wooden boards often adorned with metal or precious stones.
With the advent of the printing press during modern times, bookbinding underwent rapid development, leading to an array of beautifully crafted volumes made by expert craftsmen.
Variety of Fine Bindings
Fine bindings showcase a vast spectrum of elaborate and decorative stylesranging from interlaced arabesque designs or geometric patterns to more ornate works.
An online search will reveal some mind-blowing examples of elaborately embellished books, including ones with jewels and embroidery.
Notable Bookbinders
Grolier Bindings: Named after Jean Grolier de Servieres, a famous bibliophile and Treasurer-General of France who was passionate about collecting beautifully bound books.
Riverie and Son: A Bath-London firm active throughout the 19th century that proudly advertised themselves as Bookbinders By Special Appointment to Her Majesty The Queen.
Sangorski Sutcliffe: Recognized as one of the most significant bookbinding companies in the 20th century, they were renowned for their lavish bindings featuring real gold and precious stones.
Cosway Binding: Known for binding books with miniature pictures into beautifully crafted full-leather covers.
Easton Press Books: Commonly avlable, widely accessible finely bound books that are mass-produced today. Each book is bound in genuine leather with 22-karat gold accents as part of their deluxe limited edition collectiona great entry point for collectors wishing to build an eye-catching library instantly.
Other Notable Names: Samuel Mearne 1624-1683, Dawson Lewis, Stikeman Co., Bayntun-Riviere Binderyall produced extraordinary examples of expert binding.
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This article is reproduced from: https://www.britannicauctions.com/blog/fine-bindings/
Please indicate when reprinting from: https://www.ap80.com/Collection_price/Bound_Pleasure_Leather_Books_Binding.html
Leather Book Binding History and Prestige Custom Antique Book Bindings Appreciation Expert Craftsmanship in Fine Bookbinding Notable Bookbinders of the 20th Century Grolier Bindings: Scholarly Distinction Mark RiverieSon: Royal Appointment Binders