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Archive: February 2022 (1 Post)

Close-up view of two hands carefully at work on an aged, yellowing manuscript with handwriting

A look at John Feely, Nineteenth Century Book Stamp Engraver

Posted by: Samantha Schireson

This post examines the work of nineteenth century book stamp engraver, John Feely. During the latter half of the 19th century, book publishers in Britain and the United States began to hire artists to design book covers. Advances in technology allowed for more affordable manufacturing of books and book cloth, so decorative bindings became more prevalent in the commercial market. Many examples of Feely's highly stylized engraved book covers can be found in the General Collection at the Library of Congress.