Fine Books   By: Alfred W. Pollard (1859-1944)

Fine Books by Alfred W. Pollard is a remarkable and comprehensive guide to the world of book collecting. Pollard, a renowned bibliophile and scholar, offers a wealth of knowledge and insights in this must-read for anyone interested in the history and value of books.

One of the book's strengths is Pollard's lucid writing style, making it accessible to both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the field. He provides an excellent overview of the evolution of the book, from the earliest manuscripts to the modern printing age. The author's attention to detail and meticulous research are evident throughout, making this an invaluable resource for bibliophiles and scholars alike.

The chapters are well-organized and cover a wide range of topics, including binding styles, printing techniques, bookplates, and the proper care and preservation of books. Pollard provides fascinating anecdotes and examples, which bring the information to life and make it engaging and memorable. Additionally, the book is lavishly illustrated with numerous photographs and illustrations, enhancing the reader's understanding and appreciation of the subject matter.

One of the highlights of Fine Books is the author's passionate love for books and his ability to convey that enthusiasm to his audience. His descriptions of rare editions and unique discoveries are infectious, igniting a desire to seek out these treasures for oneself. Pollard's deep knowledge and passion for the art of printing and book collecting are evident on every page, and his infectious enthusiasm creates an immersive reading experience.

The book also includes a helpful glossary of terms, which proves useful for readers who may not be familiar with the jargon of the book collecting world. Pollard's explanations are clear and concise, ensuring that readers can fully grasp the concepts and ideas presented.

In conclusion, Fine Books by Alfred W. Pollard is an outstanding contribution to the field of book collecting. Whether you are an avid collector or simply have a passing interest in the subject, this book is a treasure trove of information, presented in an engaging and accessible manner. The author's passion, expertise, and attention to detail make it an essential addition to any book lover's library.

First Page:

If the mere taking of trouble ensured good work, this contribution to the Connoisseur's Library should be entitled to the modest praise of being "superior to the rest" of its author's book makings, since it has been ten years on the stocks and much of it has been written two or three times over, either because the writer's own information had increased or to take account of the successful researches of others. Yet in the end defeat in one main point has to be acknowledged. The book was begun with a confident determination to cover the whole ground, from the beginnings of printing and printed book illustration down to our own day, and in the case of printing the survey has been carried through, however sketchily. But the corresponding survey of book illustration ends, with rather obvious marks of compression and fatigue, about 1780, leaving the story of a hundred and thirty years of very interesting picture work untold. Pioneering is always so exciting that recognition of the impossibility of carrying out the full plan of the book within the limits either of the present volume or of the author's working life was not made without sincere regret... Continue reading book >>