Mirjam Foot has taught this course five times at RBS since 1993, most recently in August 2000. Preliminary Reading List . The perception of the importance of c19 books in library stack and other collections has risen dramatically in recent years, and a variety of steps is being taken to preserve them. The cover provided by the publisher is the prime compelling physical aspect of these books. This course is aimed at those working with or interested in c19 book covers.
Emphasis is on American book covers with comparisons to English and continental styles.
The c19 book cover as we look at it is a complex product of manufacture. In today's climate of heightened appreciation of these covers, it is important to understand how they were put together, to distinguish those that are more rare or more unusual, and to recognize which are typical of their time. In laboratory sessions, this course examines the processes of graining, stamping, and embossing so that they are clearly understood. The course will make extensive use of Rare Book School's collection of c19 and early c20 binding examples. Sue Allen has taught this RBS course 12 times since 1984.