Author: Wyatt, Matthew Digby Title: Specimens of the Geometrical Mosaic of the Middle Age...with several hand-drawn original 19th century colored mosaic designs loosely inserted Publication: London: Day and Son, (1848) Edition: First printing
Description: First printing. Hardcover. Tall folio, 19 x 13 inches (48.25 x 33 cm). 26 p, plus 21 color lithograph plates (including title page). Original boards rebacked with recent dark brown leather, with gilt rule and title on spine. With a sheaf of 12 original contemporary hand-drawn watercolor mosaic designs and notation, each protected with tissue guard and likely executed by the original owner whose note is mounted on the front pastedown. The note reads, "Please take great care of this book and of the loose copies of mosaic designs. J. M. Ivery", dated 1899. The volume has gone through repair, with Japanese paper reinforcements to many of the margins of the text pages, likely accomplished by the binder who rebacked the volume, with evidence of earlier taping still evident in places. The plates are primarily untouched, having been printed on sturdier stock. There appears to be old waterstaing to the boards, and waterstain tidemark to one plate; another plate with some repairs and wear; other plates show toning and light wear and soil but mainly free of tears or repairs. Crease to the lower corner of the front board. Despite its wear, the copy remains in good+ condition, with the exquisite color lithograph plates still bright and clean, text legible and intact. A very scarce document of medieval ornament and decoration. Good.
Seller ID: H23256
Subject: Design & Decorative Arts