Medieval girdle book
Please note: these models are made to order. Turn-around time may be up to twelve to eighteen months. One covered in suede is available for immediate delivery.
This model is accompanied by a twelve-page, illustrated booklet with bibliography outlining the construction of medieval bindings in general and the girdle book in particular.
The girdle book is a medieval binding structure featuring a long extension of leather, which could be attached to a traveler’s belt. This leather extends from the tail of the book, so the text can be read while the book is still attached to the reader’s belt. The extension often terminates in a decorative knot or hook. The twenty-three extant girdle books date from 1454 to 1579.
There are hundreds of representations of these bindings in paintings and other visual arts. This model displays features typical of medieval bindings:
• Text block sewn on double supports
• Wooden 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
• Full covering in vividly-colored leather or velvet
• Strap and pin closure
• Corner bosses
• Vellum foredge markers
• Turk’s head knot to finish leather extension at the binding’s tail
Text block of Hahnemuhle Gutenberg, 4.75 x 3.25 x 1.25 inches.
Book can be covered in pig suede or alum-tawed goat. Colors will vary.
Also available: Detailed instructions for constructing a girdle book Medieval binding
Medieval girdle book
Please note: these models are made to order. Turn-around time may be up to twelve to eighteen months. One covered in suede is available for immediate delivery.
This model is accompanied by a twelve-page, illustrated booklet with bibliography outlining the construction of medieval bindings in general and the girdle book in particular.
The girdle book is a medieval binding structure featuring a long extension of leather, which could be attached to a traveler’s belt. This leather extends from the tail of the book, so the text can be read while the book is still attached to the reader’s belt. The extension often terminates in a decorative knot or hook. The twenty-three extant girdle books date from 1454 to 1579.
There are hundreds of representations of these bindings in paintings and other visual arts. This model displays features typical of medieval bindings:
• Text block sewn on double supports
• Wooden 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
• Full covering in vividly-colored leather or velvet
• Strap and pin closure
• Corner bosses
• Vellum foredge markers
• Turk’s head knot to finish leather extension at the binding’s tail
Text block of Hahnemuhle Gutenberg, 4.75 x 3.25 x 1.25 inches.
Book can be covered in pig suede or alum-tawed goat. Colors will vary.
Also available: Detailed instructions for constructing a girdle book Medieval binding
