Medieval binding model

Medieval binding model

The medieval binding may be the archetypal book: heavy wooden boards, partially or fully covered in leather, prominent bands on the spine, held shut by straps terminating in metal clasps. Though the materials differ, the construction of these bindings is surprisingly similar to how a fine leather binding is made today. Paper has replaced parchment for the text block; thick, dense paper has replaced wood for the boards; and the sewing is now often done on flat supports to present a smooth spine. The sewing supports are still laced into the boards, the boards still nest into the shoulder but with a different profile, spine linings still provide support though they now stop at the edges of the spine rather than extending onto the boards to function as levers to aid in opening. Carefully formed corners are now designed to be invisible rather than merely protect, endbands are now decorative only instead of structural elements that lace into the boards. Clasps are no longer necessary to hold the book closed.

4.75 x 3.25 x 1.25 inches.

This model displays features typical of medieval bindings

• Quarter-sawn oak boards shaped all around, with special attention given to the inside spine edge to match the text block’s shoulder

• Spine linings extend beyond the text block and attach to the inside of the boards

• Text block laced onto boards and cords pegged in

• Sewn headbands also laced into the boards

• Covered in alum-tawed leather

• Strap and clasp closure

• Finished with blind tooling

• Text block of Hahnemuhle Gutenberg

Please note: these models are made to order and may not be available for immediate delivery. Average turn-around time is three months.