The Ideal Book by T.J. Cobden-Sanderson

The Ideal Book or Book Beautiful: A Tract on Calligraphy, Printing and Illustration & on the Book Beautiful as a Whole by T.J. Cobden-Sanderson

A facsimile of the 1900 Dove’s Press original. Tuscon, AZ: Ampersand Studios, 2022.

Collection of University of Chicago

Limp case of Ruscombe Mill handmade linen paper, vellum sewing supports and edges of paper case gilt. Binding sewn with green thread in the style of the Doves Bindery. Bound 2024.

9.25 x 6.75 x .25”
23.5 x 17 x .75 cm

I wanted a modern, enthusiastic-opening update to the original limp vellum case. I chose a paper to match rather than contrast the very bright white text. The green thread, use of at least some vellum, and the gratuitous use of gold are all nods to the work of Cobden-Sanderson. The titling mirrors the shop’s distinctive signature THE • DOVES • BINDERY