The British Library needs £9 million in order to buy Europe’s oldest in-tact book – The Cuthbert Gospel, which is a palm-sized leather-bound copy of the gospels buried 1,300 years ago in the coffin of Saint Cuthbert. This historic illuminated book has been on display at the library since 1979.
Saint Cuthbert was an Anglo-Saxon monk, hermit and bishop, and became the patron saint of Northern England. He is famous for being one of the first people to give two hoots about the poor and unfortunate, and, believe me, the poor and unfortunate had a rough time in 7th century Britain.
The Lindisfarne Gospels by Janet Backhouse is a rather more affordable reprint of Saint Cuthbert’s writings.
Posted on Jul 15th, 2011 by Richard Davies in antiquarian, news |
Well. According to one of our booksellers, you can now buy a book bound in human skin if you have a spare nine grand and a penchant for macabre things.
Not sure what else I can say about this, besides….GAAAAAAHHHH!!! *shudder shudder willies heebie-jeebies*
And remember, human skin is not the only unusual bookbinding out there.
Posted on Jun 22nd, 2011 by elizabethc in AbeBooks, antiquarian, books, design, odd |
A sharp-eyed booklover has sold an 1848 first edition of Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte for euro 8,000 (around $11,400) after buying it for euro 3 (about $4) in a flea market, reports the Irish Independent. The news story does not reveal the person who sold it at the flea market.
Posted on May 12th, 2011 by Richard Davies in antiquarian, booksellers, collecting, news |
The book world fell in love with the Art Nouveau movement just like everyone else. At the conclusion of the 19th century, book designers began incorporating spirals and flourishes, lines and loops, flowers and plants, and tall beautiful ladies into their work.
These graceful curves contrasted to the angles and edges of Art Deco (and we like Art Deco too). This selection of remarkable Art Nouveau-style books showcases a design era when elegance ruled the roost. Enjoy.
Posted on Apr 15th, 2011 by Richard Davies in AbeBooks, antiquarian, design |
Today, we have announced that AbeBooks Europe has signed an agreement to acquire ZVAB.com – the German online marketplace for rare and antiquarian books. ZVAB.com has more 3,000 booksellers in 27 countries and offers a unique inventory of over 35 million used, antiquarian and out-of-print books in many languages. Read the press release.
Posted on Mar 2nd, 2011 by Richard Davies in AbeBooks, antiquarian, booksellers, business, news |
