Can you judge a book by its cover? 19th century publishers vied to catch your eye–and your wallet–with glittering gold and vividly colored bindings. Mass-production made beautifully designed books widely available. New technologies stamped elaborate, multi-colored designs on book covers.
Designs reflected the tastes of the time: Victorian, art nouveau, art deco, and arts and crafts. Acclaimed artists like Maxfield Parrish, Margaret Armstrong and Sarah Wyman Whitman designed covers that are works of art in their own right. Come see decades of stunning bindings. From elegant to elaborate, the Wow-Factor is high. Prepare to be amazed.